Three boys are facing a string of charges after a crime spree left more than a dozen cars covered in graffiti across Newport and Altona North.
The boys, aged 12 to 14, are accused of causing an estimated $50,000 in damages by tagging vehicles and shops before stealing a car for a late-night joy ride.
Residents in Newport and Altona North woke on Monday morning to find at least 18 cars tagged in pink and black spray paint.
The three boys were arrested on Wednesday after a public plea for information and they have since been charged and bailed, a police spokeswoman said.
A 14-year-old boy from Forest Hill, and two Altona North boys, aged 12 and 14, are charged with stealing a car, theft from a car, criminal damage and also lighting a fire to cause criminal damage.
The boys will face the Children’s Court at a later date.
