A TASK force has been set up to combat worrying crime figures in Bayside. Statistics released by Victoria Police last week show the number of offences recorded in Bayside in the 2011-12 period was 4231, up from 3080 in 2010-11 – a jump of almost 40 per cent.
The spike is far greater than the statewide increase of 8.2 per cent. Victoria Police Glen Eira local command area Inspector Stephen Clark said Operation Felix would target residential burglaries and thefts of and from motor cars.
“It is naturally disappointing to see an increase in crime figures within the police service area,” Mr Clark said.
“With the assistance of our Divisional Intelligence Unit, we will continue to monitor crime across the division and to allocate our resources appropriately.”
Residential burglaries in Bayside are up more than 35 per cent, with handling stolen goods offences almost tripling.
Theft from motor vehicles has risen 41 per cent, while theft of motor vehicles has risen by 26 per cent. Theft of bicycles increased by 60 per cent.
Drug use and possession jumped 44 per cent. Acting Inspector Simon Humphrey said many cars broken into around Bayside were left unlocked.
“If you can, park your car in a driveway or garage and don’t leave your car unlocked,” he said.
“Don’t leave valuables in the car in plain view – it’s amazing how often we have to say these things.”
Crime against the person dropped by 3 per cent; but assaults are up by 11 per cent, with 283 offences recorded in 2011-12.
“Whilst we will work hard in an attempt to reduce crime across all crime categories, we need the assistance of members of the public to do so,” Inspector Clark said.
He urged residents call triple-0 if they came across any suspicious activity.
