By ALESHA CAPONE
POLICE have arrested three Brimbank residents – including a teenage girl – after a crime spree which allegedly netted the offenders goods valued at $70,000.
Officers from the Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit arrested a 17-year-old St Albans girl, 29-year-old St Albans woman and 29-year-old Deer Park man, plus 36-year-old West Melbourne man, in connection to the crimes.
Investigators allege the group are responsible for a series of up to 55 thefts from liquor stores and supermarkets, stretching from Ballarat to Frankston.
The stealing spree allegedly lasted from 23 March to 27 June this year. In each incident the offenders allegedly stole cigarettes and alcohol, with the thefts estimated to be valued at $70,000.
Police have charged the West Melbourne man with offences including theft, attempted theft, possession of a drug of dependence, theft from a motor vehicle and weapons offences.
Last Wednesday night, the 29-year-old Deer Park man handed himself into Sunshine police. He has been remanded in custody after being charged with 15 counts of theft, 18 counts of attempted theft and breaching parole.
The St Albans woman has been charged with one count of theft and returned to custody for breaching parole.
The teenager has been charged with four counts of theft and two weapons offences.
She appeared before a Children’s Court and has been bailed to re-appear at a later date.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.