Zoe Moffatt
Criminal offences in Macedon Ranges increased by 14.8 per cent in the 12 months to June, new crime data reveals.
Crime Statistics Agency data released Thursday, September 28, reveals there were 2231 total offences recorded, which is up from 1943 incidents 12 months prior.
Breach of family violence order continues to top crime in Macedon Ranges, with 272 offences recorded in the 12 months to June, compared to 239 in the previous year.
The increasing trend follows data released in June that criminal offences increased 14.7 per cent in the 12 months to March.
Despite this trend Gisborne Police Station Commander Senior Sergeant Amanda Cohen said crime decreased compared to pre-COVID levels.
“Despite a slight increase in the most recent reporting period, overall crime in Macedon Ranges has decreased by 10 per cent compared to pre-COVID levels,” she said.
“This also includes suburbs such as Kyneton and Gisborne, which have both decreased compared to pre-pandemic levels.
“We want to reassure the community that police are focused on preventing crime that causes the most harm to the community, including home burglaries, car thefts.”
Kyneton remained the suburb with the highest offences recorded with an increase of 97 offences, Gisborne came in second with an increase of 40 offences and Woodend increased by 94 offences.
Senior Sergeant Cohen said police will continue to patrol the community to prevent crime and keep the community safe.
“However we are reminding everyone to stay vigilant.
“There are simple steps that people can take, including making it a nightly routine to lock doors, especially internal doors that lead to garages, and ensuring keys aren’t easily accessible.”
Sunbury’s criminal offences recorded increased by 126 compared to 12 months prior, bringing the total offences recorded to 2298.
Stealing from a motor vehicle overtook breach of family violence order as the top crime offence in Hume, compared to the 12 months to June, with 1928 offences recorded.
Victoria police said overall crime in Hume has dropped by 13 per cent since pre-pandemic.
“In Sunbury, residential break-ins, car thefts and stealing from cars has dropped by 56 per cent since pre-pandemic,” they said.
