Parramatta. Mall a 'magnet' for crime

The Church Street Mall, between Darcy and Macquarie streets has become a magnet for crime gangs and drug users who terrorise shoppers and business owners, according to The Sunday Telegraph. Parramatta Chamber of Commerce president, Trevor Oldfield, said the mall had become an embarrassment. Parramatta Lord Mayor, John Chedid, said businesses were concerned about their safety and the future of their businesses. The paper reported that police commander, Superintendent Robert Redfern, did not believe there was a serious problem in the mall.