Police have arrested almost 30 people and laid just shy of 70 charges in a week-long blitz targeting antisocial behaviour in St Kilda, South Melbourne, and Port Melbourne.
Over a five-day period between 8-12 September, South Melbourne and St Kilda Uniform Police, as well as the Port Phillip Neighbourhood Policing Unit:
- Arrested 27 people
- Executed 44 warrants
- Laid 68 charges
- Located 31 people wanted on whereabouts
- Seized one controlled weapon and one dangerous article
Among those arrested:
- A 24-year-old man was arrested on Park Street, South Melbourne, and charged with more than 40 offences, including shop steal, contravene bail conditions, and commit indictable offence while on bail. He was remanded to appear in Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 19 September.
- A 46-year-old man was arrested on Dorcas Street, South Melbourne over alleged family violence offences. It will be alleged he was found in possession of a knife. Charges are pending for possessing a controlled weapon. He will face court at a later date.
Police also engaged with local retailers, specifically along Clarendon and Bay streets in South Melbourne, and Acland, Carlisle and Fitzroy streets in St Kilda, following a spike in retail theft.
There was a particular focus on liquor outlets due to recidivist alcohol thefts. Retailers are advised to report all thefts to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Similar operations will be conducted in the future.
Quotes attributable to South Melbourne Uniform Sergeant Edward Beaurepaire:
"Last week's efforts by local police resulted in a large number of executed warrants - an average of almost nine a day - and that's on top of foot patrols along busy streets across three suburbs.
"Almost 70 charges were laid against 27 people for antisocial behaviour that we, and residents, consider to be unacceptable.
"That's why we conduct these operations; we are not only making the streets safer for locals and visitors to our area, but we are also making people feel safer, too.
"This sends a clear warning to thieves, wanted offenders, and those in possession of drugs or weapons, that police will continue to proactively target crime in the area."
