A new police operation targeting children is currently underway in Mount Isa after public outcry over children as young as eight being charged with crimes.
Police officers are stopping the children, taking their photograph and even driving them home.
Sergeant Brad Inskip says the police are notifying the parents of the kids that their children are out and about while also offering assistance to the families by referring them to support agencies.
Since the program began three weeks ago, 500 children have been stopped but only around 20 have committed any offences.