By Matthew Sims
Recorded criminal offences increased by 5.2 per cent across Hobsons Bay in the year to March, according to new Crime Statistics Agency [CSA] data.
The data showed there were 6070 recorded offences during the September 2021 to September 2022 period in Hobsons Bay, which showed a jump of 302 recorded offences from the 5768 recorded offences during the September 2020 to September 2021 period.
In Williamstown, the data reflected there were 1091 recorded offences between September 2021 and September 2022, which was a 4.8 per cent jump, including a 30.77 per cent increase in theft offences.
In Altona, the data showed a 42.2 per cent increase in property damage offences, while there was a 17.65 per cent reduction in drug use and possession offences recorded.
In Maribyrnong, the data reflected a 0.9 per cent increase in recorded criminal offences, with 8718 offences recorded in the year up to September.
Footscray’s data showed a 8.55 per cent increase in the number of recorded criminal offences, including a 11.36 per cent jump in the number of theft offences and a 44.83 per cent increase in the number of recorded drug dealing and trafficking offences, while Yarraville’s drug use and possession charges recorded increased from 17 to 42 offences.
Hobsons Bay local area commander Inspector Tim O’Connor said Hobsons Bay police would continue to do everything in their power to drive down crime in Melbourne’s west.
“While we are seeing some gradual increases in crime as we move further away from the pandemic, police in Melbourne’s west will continue to do everything we can to keep crime as low as possible,” he said.
“Property type crime including theft from motor vehicles and criminal damage continues to feature prominently and we urge the community to ensure they are securing their properties and vehicles at all times, particularly ahead of the summer period when many people will be holidaying or out enjoying the festive season.”
