A SHARP rise in assault, property damage, vehicle theft and drug offences has led to a 4percent rise in overall crime in Maribyrnong in the 12 months to March, police figures released on Friday show.
Across Victoria, overall crime during the period jumped 5.6 per cent. In Maribyrnong, drug offences rose 29 per cent, followed by property damage (up 16 per cent), assaults (14 per cent), and motor vehicle thefts (12 per cent).
Small drops were recorded in robberies, non-household burglaries and thefts from cars.
Footscray’s Acting Inspector Damian Jones said the leap in recorded drug offences was driven by a greater police activity.
“That is due to an increase in engagement – our officers seeking out drug offenders.”
He pointed to a two-week sweep of the Footscray centre aimed at catching drug dealers who had moved to the fringes outside the view of CCTV.
More than half of the rise in assaults stemmed from family violence.
Acting Inspector Jones said police were starting to hear more from communities that traditionally kept the issue behind closed doors.
“Historically, domestic violence has been grossly under-reported in the area.
“We are trying to bridge the gap.”
Police remain amazed at the number of times stolen cars have been left unlocked or items have been stolen from cars because they have been left in sight.
Acting Inspector Jones said GPS devices left in cars were the hottest item to attract thieves.
“I don’t think people realise these crooks are out there actively seeking these goods from cars.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re in Footscray, Richmond or East Melbourne; if you leave your handbag on the seat the odds will eventually go against you.”
“A 31percent hike in the number of injuries on local roads prompted a police warning to motorists to take care.
