Local theft rate ’down’

SOME categories of theft in the region have plunged “well below” the state average, according to police.
Senior Sergeant Michael Reid said figures for the “theft-other” category had decreased in the Geelong police service area since a spike in August.
“It’s quite considerably less than the state average and in comparison to the rest of the Western region, especially considering the Geelong division is the largest regional centre in Victoria and is quite often compared to Melbourne in regards to crime.”
The August data analysis of theft-other crimes found a spike in thefts from building sites, houses under construction and tradesmen’s vehicles.
The Independent reported last month that a partnership between police and the building industry aimed to combat a rise in thefts at building sites including Armstrong Creek, Ocean Grove and Clifton Springs. Police were educating builders in use of security equipment including high-tech cameras and invisible ink markings on tools and equipment.
Crime prevention officer Senior Constable Adrian Goodwin said thieves targeted houses under construction at Lara this week.
“They’re taking things you wouldn’t believe they’d take, like a kitchen sink. When it comes to sites under construction they’re going in for something of value.”
Sen Const Goodwin said front doors were a commonly-stolen item during the past year.
Sen Sgt Reid said thieves had also targeted Barwon Water meters to sell their components.
“That has now been addressed through Barwon Water reducing the value of water meters to the point where they’re not worth stealing.”
Snr Sgt Reid said second-hand dealers and metal recyclers were contacting police when sellers presented them with commonly-stolen items.
Thefts from motor vehicles, a separate category, were fewer than in previous summers.
“Normally we see a spike at this time of year, especially on the Surf Coast, but we’ve seen a drop since the spike in November,” Sen Sgt Reid said.