UP to 30 offenders have been arrested and charged over the past fortnight in relation to thefts of cars, and from cars, in Carrum Downs, Frankston, Frankston South, Langwarrin and Seaford areas.
The ease with which the crimes are committed amazes Frankston police, who say residents are “not doing the right thing” to ensure they are not victims of crime.
They don’t know what else they can do to encourage residents to lock their cars, especially overnight, and keep any valuables out of sight.
Senior Constable Ken Howard, of Frankston CIU, said more than 40 per cent of burgled cars had been unlocked. He said the offenders were mainly mid-to-late teens who saw the thefts as easy money-spinners. Many simply walk along trying car doors and stealing from those they find unlocked.
“We appeal to residents to make sure their cars are locked and that valuables are removed,” he said.
Police believe the same thief is responsible for two car break-ins at around the same time in Mudlark Ct, Carrum Downs, in the early hours of Wednesday 2 December.
In the first robbery, $15,000 in tools was stolen from a utility at 2.30am. Senior Constable Howard said the owner, a plumber, was “devastated” at losing the uninsured tools, which included Milwaukie brand equipment. Individual items were valued at $3000 and $4000.
About 20 minutes later, a wallet containing credit cards and a quantity of cash was stolen from an unlocked car in the same court.
Senior Constable Howard said police were searching for a Caucasian teenager, aged 15-17, riding a BMX bike. As the plumber’s tools were heavy and bulky, he may have used a car parked nearby to remove them.
Anyone knowing the whereabouts of the tools, is offered cheap tools or who has information on the crimes, is urged to call Senior Constable Howard on 9784 5590, or Crime Stoppers 1300 333 000.