By NICOLE VALICEK
AN ALTONA resident was left in a state of shock after witnessing a group of youths vandalising a community toilet block recently.
Local resident Suzan Crittenden witnessed “extreme vandalism” at the RJ Logan Reserve, Altona on Thursday August 29 at approximately 5.30pm.
Mrs Crittenden said she saw and heard three youths vandalising the toilet block at the venue before calling the police.
“They were intimidating and swore at me when they saw me looking in their direction,” she said.
“After inspecting the toilet block with the Constable, I could not believe what those boys had done,” Mrs Crittenden said.
Hobsons Bay Police Inspector Richard Paterson said three males aged between 16 and 18 years from the Wyndham area were spoken to by police about the incident.
He said the damage to the toilet block included graffiti and smashing of toilet seats and glass.
One of the male offenders appeared in court the following day and received a 12-month good behaviour bond with the condition that he continues counselling.
The other two offender’s cases have not yet been finalised.
Mrs Crittenden said it was time the community took a stand to stamp out vandalism in the community.
“I think it’s about time Hobsons Bay, Altona in particular, stand ups and let people know that we won’t tolerate senseless vandalism and destruction by people that come here to enjoy the many facilities and natural beauty that Altona has to offer and then just leave a path of destruction in their wake,” Mrs Crittenden said.
Insp Paterson said the actions of the offenders were “senseless”.
“The money spent to repair damage such as this can be used in so many better ways within our community,” he said.
“None of us want to work or live in areas that are unsightly or damaged.”
“There are so many different activities and things to enjoy in Hobsons Bay that it’s sad that a small proportion of people resort to these actions.”
Insp Paterson said vandalism was something the police took very seriously.
“We want to help make our area the best place to live and work in and we will ensure all offenders who prevent this from occurring will face the full force of the law.”
He encouraged people to contact Triple-zero whenever they see behaviour that affects the good public order of the community.
