Geelong Tasking and Crime Intervention Taskforce detectives have arrested three people as part of an investigation into a series of vehicle thefts and break-ins
on the Bellarine Peninsula in July.
Police allege a group of thieves stole multiple vehicles and broke into dozens more between 7 July and 17 July, stealing various items including tools and credit cards.
The crimes predominantly occurred at beach car parks.
One incident allegedly unfolded at the Barwon Heads Beach car park where offenders located the keys to a near new Landcruiser before stealing it. The vehicle was later recovered at an address in the Geelong area.
On another occasion, a man dressed in a wig to disguise himself allegedly targeted unlocked cars in residential streets in Drysdale while a ‘getaway car’ travelled behind him. A 32-year-old man is accused of stealing debit cards, which he later used at local service stations to buy cigarettes and food items.
Police executed four search warrants in St Albans Park, Grovedale and Geelong on
Thursday 30 September, resulting in the arrest of three people:
• A 32-year-old man from St Albans Park was charged with more than 30 offences including theft of motor vehicle, theft from motor vehicle and obtain
property by deception. He has been remanded to face Geelong Magistrates Court in November.
• A 32-year-old woman from Geelong was charged with four counts of handling stolen goods. She has been bailed to face court in February.
• A 27-year-old woman from St Albans Park has been released pending further enquiries.
The ongoing investigation relates to several other vehicle crime investigations on the Bellarine Peninsula, which police allege are linked to a network of offenders.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Geelong Police Station on 5225 3100.
