The latest crime statistics show there were 744 burglary offences in the Maribyrnong area in the year ending September 2021, which is a 5% increase from the previous year.
More than half of these offences (51%) are made up by ‘creep in burglaries’, which occur when the offender enters the home via an unlocked door or window, often when the homeowner is present. In most cases, thieves sneak in and out of property unseen, and as quickly as possible to avoid being caught or confronted. Whilst it is important to note the incidence of this type of crime is relatively uncommon, for victims this can be a traumatic and distressing experience.
Since many new cars cannot be started without their keys, some offenders have resorted to committing burglaries with the motivation of obtaining keys to steal a car. Thieves may seize an opportunity to sneak in and look for car keys and other easy items to steal, especially if they are left on display. Data shows that in 95% of aggravated burglaries involving car keys there is no contact between the occupant and offender.
Opportunistic thieves will scan the perimeter of a property, looking for signals or physical signs that the property is vulnerable. Footscray Police recommends some small steps you can take to help prevent becoming a victim of this type of crime. These include:
– Installing good quality locks on doors and windows. Consider installing CCTV cameras and motion sensor lighting.
– Lock all windows and doors, even when you’re at home – unlocked side and rear doors are the most common entry points for burglars.
– Remove valuable items from plain sight – particularly car keys, wallets, electronic devices and cash.
On top of our day-to-day policing and investigating of offences, Victoria Police is also working closely with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) and Griffith University to understand the evidence and research around offender behaviour.
If you see any suspicious activity, report it immediately to police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
