By NATALIE GALLENTI
MELTON residents have welcomed the recent deployment of five Protective Services Officers to the Melton Railway Station. 98797 Picture: CONTRIBUTED
PROTECTIVE Services Officers began work at Melton Railway Station last week to the relief of commuters.
The announcement that five PSOs will now man the station platform was made last Monday and welcomed by Melton Police Inspector Stephen Mutton.
“It’s an important initiative and will enhance public perception of safety,” Insp Mutton said.
“Not only will it enhance the perception of safety but it will, in fact, enhance safety.”
Inspector Mutton said the railway station has been highlighted as one of the municipality’s most dangerous hot spots.
“(It’s) really important when people hop off the train they’re there… we’re looking forward to people enjoying the security of PSOs. It’s a winner.”
PSOs now patrol platforms across Melbourne’s West including Footscray, Werribee, Laverton, Yarraville, Hoppers Crossing, Sunshine, St Albans, Watergardens and Newport every night from 6pm until the last train.
Transit Safety Division Superintendent John Hendrickson said the PSOs continued to be extremely well received by the community.
“It’s great to see members of the public approach PSOs during their shifts and thank them for the work they’re doing to help keep their stations safe,” Supt Hendrickson said.
The deployment of PSOs is based on a number of factors such as how busy the train station is and the amount of reported crime and anti-social behaviour.
Victoria Police will recruit 940 PSOs by November 2014.
