Serial retail thief arrested in Merri-Bek operation

An alleged prolific shop thief wanted for 25 thefts from retail stores over the last 12 months was among several arrested as part of a targeted operation in Brunswick.

Police from the Merri-bek area regularly run Operation Midday, which sees a coordinated approach from police, Loss Prevention Officers and security to target those stealing from local stores and prevent crime.

Last week, the four-day effort focused on the Brunswick area and led to:

• 10 people arrested for theft, obtain financial advantage by deception and drug possession
• 20 outstanding warrants cleared
• Six whereabouts cleared

Police working the operation were alerted to a man allegedly stealing from a supermarket in Barkly Square on Thursday 14 April.

The man, a 44-year-old from Caulfield, was arrested and subsequently charged with over 20 shop thefts alleged to have occurred over the last 12 months. He was remanded in custody to appear at court on 22 May.

Part of the operation’s focus is to also deter people away from shop stealing and assist in finding longer term solutions so the behaviour isn’t repeated.

Two people were offered referrals to support services for assistance with groceries to help curb the chances of reoffending.

Nearly 40 people have been arrested since the start of the year for shop thefts from supermarkets, liquor stores and department stores in Brunswick and Coburg.

Operation Midday has been running sporadically throughout the year across Merri-bek, focusing on disrupting and deterring retail theft.

Stealing from a retail store is the fifth most common offence in Merri-bek, with 762 offences recorded over the last year.

Among all the suburbs in Merri-bek, Brunswick (269) and Coburg (173) recorded the most retail theft offences.

Anyone with information about retail theft is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Quotes attributable to Merri-bek Local Area Commander, Inspector Tim Jacobs:

“Retail theft is certainly not a victimless crime, with staff and bystanders experiencing aggression and intimidation during these incidents.

“We are very focused on ensuring our local retailers are safe, and ensuring these are safe places for people to visit.

“Operations like this will continue to prevent retail theft from occurring in the first place, and allow us to respond quickly to apprehend thieves.”

Media Unit

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