Baker's dozen arrested in two-day retail theft blitz in Moe

An operation targeting thieves in Moe has nabbed thirteen people in just two days.

Uniform police from Moe teamed up with Loss Prevention Officers (LPOs) in supermarkets, clothing shops and liquor stores to catch would-be thieves in the act last week.

Police also conducted patrols throughout the CBD and surrounding areas including the retail precinct, railway station, skate park and other key community locations.

Thirteen people were arrested in just two days, including:

• A 30-year-old woman from Moe who was allegedly spotted by LPOs stealing more than $800 worth of items from a department store on Albert Street, including jeans, a hair straightener, toilet brush and stick-on nails. She was charged with theft, and contravening a family violence intervention order. She was bailed to appear in Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in October. The woman was ordered not to attend the store. All items were recovered and returned to the store.

• A 30-year-old man from Newborough who was wanted on an outstanding warrant for three alleged thefts was spotted by uniform members. He was charged with theft and was bailed to appear in Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in November. The man also received a caution for possessing cannabis. It will be alleged he racked up a $10,000 bill of stolen items from supermarkets over the last two years.

• A 40-year-old man from Moe who was wanted on outstanding warrants was spotted allegedly stealing beauty products from a supermarket on Albert Street. He was cautioned for the theft of the $130 worth of beauty products, which were returned to the supermarket. He will face Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in October over the outstanding warrants, and was banned from attending the supermarket for 12 months.

Similar operations are expected in the future.

Quotes attributable to Latrobe Local Area Commander Acting Inspector Wayne Redmond:

“We know a lot of people are struggling to make ends meet right now, with rising interest rates, inflation and general cost-of-living pressures piling up.

“However, stealing is never the answer. It isn’t a victimless crime and often results in higher prices at the checkout for other customers.

“A criminal record for theft will not only damage your image and reputation; it could affect current or future employment opportunities as well.

“We also encourage businesses – no matter how big or small – to report retail theft to police. It’s now easier than ever and can be reported via the Police Assistance line on 131 444 or online.”

Media Unit
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