Zoe Moffatt
Criminal offence in Macedon Range ncreased by 14.7 per cent in the 12 months to March, new crime data reveals.
Crime Statistics Agency data released Thursday reveals there were 2172 total offences recorded, which is up from 1894 incidents 12 months prior.
Breach of family violence order was the top crime offence in Macedon Ranges, with 279 offences recorded 12 months to March, compared to 204 in the previous year.
Crime in Kyneton increased by 125 offences, Woodend increased by 97 offences, Riddells Creek increased by 83 offences, Macedon increased by 19 offences, and Gisborne increased by five offences.
Family violence incidences also increased by five per cent across the shire in the 12 months to March.
There were 462 recorded family violence incidences, which is up from 440 incidents 12 months prior.
Sunbury’s crime rate slightly fell in the 12 months to March, with the town recording 2304 offences, compared to 2344 offences the previous 12 months.
The reduction of offences recorded in Sunbury continues the declining trend, with offences recorded currently at its lowest since the same time in 2014.
Hume Inspector Dean Clinton said police have increased its resources in Sunbury and is glad to see the positive effect.
“We did increase resources up there,” he said.
“We’re obviously glad to see it, and that our representation out there is having a positive effect.”
Stealing from a motor vehicle was the top crime offence in Hume, with 1779 offences recorded 12 months before March 2023, which is down from the 1838 offences the previous year.
Inspector Clinton said this is a reminder for residents to lock their cars and houses.
“[It’s a] message to people to be vigilant in locking your car and taking valuables out of your car,” he said.
“Also locking your house, including your back door.”
