By ALESHA CAPONE
A MAN has been arrested after allegedly burgling properties in Newport and Laverton, then walking along the street and attempting to sell the stolen items.
Detective Senior Constable Sarah Patrick, from Hobsons Bay CIU, said police were searching for witnesses to the crime spree which occurred on Friday 4 January.
“There was a series of burglaries at houses around Laverton Train Station,” Det Sen Const Patrick said.
“Later on in Newport some businesses were burgled.”
Police arrested a Laverton man after the four burglaries and two attempted break-ins, which they believe were all committed by the same man.
Det Sen Const Patrick said the man allegedly used a number of knives to break into premises throughout the day, beginning in Laverton.
“He then allegedly took the train to Newport, has done some more burglaries and then walked along the street offering to sell items to people such as laptops and jewellery,” she said.
“It looks like he’s been approaching people to sell them stolen goods.”
“There was a short foot chase with police and we believe he may have dumped a knife while this was happening in Newport.”
Det Sen Const Patrick appealed for anyone in the area who saw an Aboriginal male aged between 20 to 30 years old, with a medium build, to get in contact with Victoria Police.
She said the man was wearing khaki-coloured pants, a white T-shirt and grey long-sleeved top at the time of the crime spree, which began about 10am and concluded after 2pm.
In addition, residents who discover a knife or who have CCTV featuring a man matching the description can also come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
