Crime rise: police seek public help

CARDINIA Police Service Area Inspector Chris Major has urged community members to support police in tackling a rise in drug-related crimes, burglary and property damage.
Police statistics for Cardinia Shire released on Wednesday 30 November revealed the rate of drug offences had increased by 54 per cent compared to the same time last year, with 183 recorded since October last year.
Insp Major said the continued rise in drug offences was due to increased efforts in identifying, investigating and charging offenders who use and sell drugs within the community.
“We have dedicated resources to this issue, and will continue to work hard, particularly with young people, on reducing the impact of drugs within our community,” Insp Major said.
“Drug related crimes is one area of our work that we need the ongoing support of the community. If you have any information regarding drug trafficking within the Cardinia area, I ask that you contact us directly or ring Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
Insp Major also highlighted property damage, burglary and theft of motor vehicles as continuing issues in the Cardinia area.
The rates of assault, theft of motor vehicle and non-residential burglary have all increased by 2.9 per cent, 6.3 per cent and 18 per cent respectively.
“Property damage, burglary and theft of motor vehicles are continuing to be an issue in the Cardinia area. I urge members of our community report any suspicious activity to police as soon as possible to assist police with addressing these crimes,” Insp Major said. “It is also important that we lock our vehicles and do not leave any valuables inside that can be readily seen by those who take advantage of the situation and commit opportunistic crimes.”
The rate of residential burglary has dropped by 24 per cent and theft from motor vehicle has also seen a decline.
According to the statistics the number of fatalities recorded on Cardinia Shire’s roads has increased to seven from five recorded at the same time last year and total injuries increased from 255 to 290.
“With the ever changing weather pattern in Victoria, it is essential that all road users have road safety at the fore front of their thinking and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and in good mechanical condition,” Insp Major said.