VICTORIA is facing an unprecedented surge in youth crime, according to a statement by the State Opposition parties, The Liberals and Nationals, this week, claiming aggravated home burglaries committed by young offenders have skyrocketed over the past decade.
They say the government has released data which reveals the average rate of residential aggravated burglaries committed in 2015 by an offender aged 10 to 17 was one every three days.
“This has increased to 3.4 per day in the latest statistics released by the government.”
The claims made by the Opposition are certainly backed up locally by the increase in aggravated burglaries and car thefts in Leongatha, Inverloch, Wonthaggi and other locations in Bass Coast and South Gippsland.
On Sunday, September 8 between the hours of 9.30pm and 7am on Monday morning, a vehicle was stolen from a home in Inverloch where the offenders entered the house through a rear glass sliding door and stole the keys to a black 2022 Isuzu MUX. A handbag in the vehicle was also stolen.
Police are still seeking information about the incident which is just the latest in a string such crimes locally.
On Tuesday, August 27, it has been reported by police that two offenders entered a property in Tamara Crescent, Inverloch at about 4.45am.
Police were told that the offenders stole personal items and car keys before fleeing the scene in the victim’s black Volkswagen Golf with registration 1DC1HJ.
The victim was asleep inside the house at the time.
Detectives released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
He was described as being aged in his early 20s with curly hair and a goatee style beard. He was wearing a ‘Hoodrich’ brand tracksuit. Anyone with information about the people involved is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
The Opposition statement goes on to say “this is a 934 per cent increase in the annual number of residential aggravated burglaries committed by young offenders over the decade, soaring from 119 in 2015, to 1230 in 2024 – over 1000 extra victims terrorised in their home.”
“These numbers are not just statistics. They represent real risks to the community, real victims and a growing number of Victorians feeling unsafe in their own home,” said Shadow Minister for Police, Brad Battin this week.
“The consequences of this trend are far-reaching, affecting not only the direct victims, but also instilling a sense of fear and insecurity across communities.
“Urgent action is needed to address the root causes of this crisis, and without intervention and investment in effective preventative measures, Victorians face an entrenched culture of crime and fear.
“The alarming rise in aggravated burglaries by youth offenders highlights a critical issue that requires immediate attention from the government. We must prioritise community safety solutions that protect all Victorians.
“Under the Allan Labor Government, crime prevention programs have been cut, bail laws weakened, and police stations closed, amounting to more victims of violent crime across the state.
“The increase in aggravated burglaries by young offenders is a result of the Allan Labor Government continuing to deny the issue and decision to cut the services that prevent crimes, all because they cannot manage money, cannot manage our justice system and now Victorians are paying the price.”
