Tuesday, August 5, 2008

New surveillence laws allow bugging without warrant

NEW surveillance laws give NSW law enforcement agencies explicit powers to install listening and tracking devices without a warrant.
The Surveillance Devices Act 2008 came into effect on Friday and also extends the duration of such surveillance from 21 days to 90 days, when a warrant has been ordered.
Police and the highly controversial NSW Crime Commission are just two state agencies that will have the new powers.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and the Police Integrity Commission (PIC) also fall within the new legislation.
The threat of imminent danger will be enough for law enforcement to install a host of monitoring devices for up to two days before obtaining a warrant.
The 90-day warrant period means detectives will not be required to re-apply during long surveillance operations often involved when monitoring suspected terrorists or organised crime groups.
NSW Attorney-General John Hatzistergos said the laws would cut red tape and allow for quick turnaround.

http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,24121376-5006009,00.html

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