9News has uncovered a shocking revelation about the Queensland Police budget, which is facing a staggering black hole of $116 million. Senior police officials are now scrambling to find ways to save money and rectify the situation.
Leaked emails obtained exclusively by 9News exposed how the police budget was derailed by the acquisition of a new police station.
A lease worth $116 million over 15 years was signed by Queensland Police for a new station in Stones Corner, with an option to extend it for a total of $240 million.
Sources revealed a major oversight where the contract was signed before securing a funding source.
The budget deficit has forced senior police to seek cost-cutting measures to prevent any impact on frontline services.
An investigation is underway to determine how the contract was approved without allocated funding.
The leak has also prompted legal threats from property owners for missed payment installments.
The $116 million shortfall is equivalent to the annual salary of 1325 first-year constables.
The Crime and Corruption Commission is reportedly looking into the matter, but no official comments have been provided.