By XAVIER SMERDON
CRIME in Wyndham has continued to climb with the number of recorded drug offences and crimes against property skyrocketing over the last 12 months.
According to the latest crime statistics, released by Victoria Police last Friday, drug offences have increased to 558 compared to 348 in the previous year, a rise of 60.3 per cent.
Crime against property increased by 16.8 per cent to 9714 while thefts from motor vehicles increased by 27.6 per cent with 1955 offences recorded.
Wyndham’s police had wins with robberies and assaults, excluding family violence, with figures showing they had fallen by 31.8 per cent and 19 per cent respectively.
Acting Inspector Damien Christensen said the increase in thefts from motor vehicles was mostly caused by stolen number plates and thieves taking advantage of unlocked cars.
“Increased reporting of theft from motor vehicles and burglaries have increased for the 12 month period, but in the past few months our targeted approach has begun to impact on the number of reports and the improved clearance rates,” Acting Insp Christensen said.
“Property crime is also likely to increase in the summer months due to unlocked vehicles and houses in warm weather as well as vacant houses during the holiday period.
“I remind people that most of these offences occur through opportunity and vulnerability.”
Acting Insp Christenson said he had continued on from the work started by former Inspector Cindy Millen by targeting repeat offenders.
“There has been a minor reduction in crimes against the person,” he said.
“This reduction has occurred through high visibility operations and patrols in locations where assaults and robberies are most likely to occur.
“The reduction also coincides with the introduction of Protective Service Officers in Wyndham. “Unfortunately, we continue to see crimes against the person be affected by the increase in reports of assaults in family violence situations.”
Family violence was also likely to continue to increase over the next few months according to Acting Insp Christensen.
“Family violence reporting has increased and is a significant issue for our community,” he said.
“As we move into the Christmas period and warmer weather, I ask people to be tolerant and respectful to family and loved ones.
“School holidays, financial hardship caused by Christmas spending, warm weather and alcohol can all be triggers for increased reporting to police.”
