The kidnapping case saw police sitting in as security every day, for 19 days.

The Police Association of Tasmania has revealed the “shocking” costs of taking police off the street and putting them inside the court for the trial - more than $95,000.

The association’s president Pat Allen said police committed about 2500 “man-hours” to the trial, which included sitting in on the proceedings and transporting defendants to and from the Launceston Reception Prison.

That time, he said, “could have been utilised on tackling issues that affect the safety of the public”.

The six people on trial were found not guilty.

“Whilst the decision regarding the acquittal is obviously disappointing to those involved in what was a complex investigation, a long file preparation and the subsequent trial - this is the system within which police operate and such a decision is accepted as part of that process,” Mr Allen said.

“What is unacceptable is the fact that on security alone for the trial police expended over $95,000.”

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It's not the first time the issue has been raised.

In 2012 the state Liberal Party promised to end the practice of putting police in court if elected, yet police officers continue to be taken off the frontline. 

A state government spokesman said on Friday “this is a complex matter but the Government remains committed to getting police out of the courts and back on the beat, and work continues to that effect”.