Police yesterday charged a man with numerous offences as a result of an investigation into the handling of allegedly stolen vehicles at an automotive wrecking business in Sunshine North.
Vehicle Crime Squad detectives executed a search at the Baldwin Avenue address on 27 January, following information that the business had allegedly been operationing in contravention of the Second Hand Dealers Act.
During the search, police located information to indicate a second holding yard nearby and a search was conducted at this premises.
Multiple items were seized as a result of the search warrant, including:
• A 2000 Mercedes A190, allegedly stolen in 2018;
• A Ford AU Fairmont, allegedly stolen in 2017; and
• A de-identified motorcycle.
The 35-year-old St Albans man was subsequently charged with a range of offences, including handle stolen goods, possess/negligently deal with proceeds of crime, fail to keep accurate records, buy unidentified vehicle for scrap and fail to notify authority of change of address.
He was bailed to appear at the Sunshine Magistrates' Court on 25 November.
As a serious criminal offence was identified pursuant to the Second Hand Dealers Act, an Interim Closure Notice was issued by the Vehicle Crime Squad to close down the business.
Police will also continue to work with Brimbank City Council and Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) in relation to this matter and ongoing investigations into waste crime/dumping.
People are urged to report any waste dumping to EPA's pollution hotline on 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842).
Quotes attributable to Vehicle Crime Squad Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Scott Williams
"Victoria Police recognises the significant and long-lasting impact crimes such as vehicle thefts can have on victims, and the broader community."
"With parts of these vehicles missing, it suggests they were acquired to support the stolen parts market, which often funds other established crime networks. That is among the reasons why we take these crimes extremely seriously, and always investigate every report thoroughly.
"The Vehicle Crime Squad invite any reports from the public about people or businesses that may be involved in motor vehicle theft, dealing in stolen vehicles and automotive parts.
"We will take swift action to disrupt and hold those responsible for these crimes to account, along with those who are involved through the handling of stolen items."
