Louise Axisa is terrified of constant vandalism on her street. 85370 Picture: KRISTIAN SCOTT
By VANESSA VALENZUELA
A HOPPERS CROSSING mother fears for her family’s safety after vandals continue to attack her house.
Louise Axisa, 58, told Star her children’s cars had been damaged several times during the year and last week her garage had been tagged with graffiti.
The mother of three from Ironbark Drive said her street was targeted by vandals at least once a month.
Ms Axisa said she often reported the incidents to the police and Wyndham City Council but was frustrated with their lack of response.
“I am not happy with them. The kids are going to get away with it and it’s going to keep happening. It’s not quite right,” Ms Axisa said.
“To me they are not doing enough. What is next? They might break into the house. It is dangerous.”
Figures released to Star last month reveal the council conducted more than 4680 graffiti clean-ups during the 2011/12 financial year.
Hoppers Crossing had the most clean-ups conducted in Wyndham, with almost 1880 graffiti incidents during the past financial year.
Ms Axis said she had complained to Wyndham Council a number of times but was unhappy when they told her all she could do was keep reporting the incidents.
“If we don’t do anything and sweep it under the carpet, things will get worse. That’s how I see it,” Ms Axis said.
Ms Axis said greater police presence was needed in the area to deter vandals and wanted patrols visiting the area at night, on weekends and during school holidays.
Werribee’s acting sergeant Steve Harper said it was difficult to catch vandals in the act.
“We have, from time to time, issues with kids carrying a bit of grief, particularly during school holidays,” Sgt Harper said.
“It’s just a matter of being at the right place at the right time.”
Sgt Harper said victims of vandalism should report any incidents to the police immediately after the event.
He said the police would send extra patrols to the area if needed.
