Burglary and theft continue to rise across the Yarra Ranges

State Liberal Member for Eildon Cindy McLeish MP is concerned not enough is being done to stop the increasing rate of theft and burglary in the Yarra Ranges.

“Despite a small decrease in crime across the state, it is continuing to rise across key areas such as burglary, robbery and theft.”

“Daniel Andrews is failing to address these crimes with property and deception offences increasing by 16.47% since his election,” Ms McLeish said.

Crime statistics released today show burglary and theft is continuing to rise in the Yarra Ranges.

In the year ending June 2017 burglary has increased 14% from 644 to 734 offences in the Yarra Ranges with theft increasing by 2.3%.

In Healesville burglary has risen by 17.9% in the last year from 39 offences to 46 whilst theft has risen 28.7% - 108 to 139 offences.

Theft in Warburton has risen 50% from 28 to 42 offences in the last year.

In Woori Yallock theft has risen from 25 to 41 offences – a 65% increase.

“The worst thing about theft and burglary is the often indiscriminate nature of the crime. Anyone can have something stolen at any time.”

“It is very easy for opportunistic criminals to target unlocked cars and garages, but what is more concerning is the often brazen nature in which criminals break into local homes and businesses,” Ms McLeish said.

Aggravated burglary has risen 60% and aggravated robbery has risen 28.53% across the state since the election of the Andrews Labor Government in 2014.

“It’s time that we take back our state from violent crime. A government led by Matthew Guy will make public safety our number one priority,” Ms McLeish concluded.