By Jessica Micallef
A Romsey resident says he “fears for his life”, claiming a group of youths have been “terrorising the town”.
William Nixon has lived in Romsey for five years. He says for at least three years residents have been verbally threatened and property damaged by a group of youths, who he believes to be aged between 13 and 20.
“There are about 20 of them. They terrorise the whole town and they pose a threat to the community,” Mr Nixon said.
“The group has gotten bigger over the years.”
Mr Nixon said he has received verbal death threats from the group.
He has contacted police and Macedon Ranges council but says no action has been taken.
“Police say they don’t have the resources. The whole community is hurting. These kids are bored and angry and we need better services.”
Macedon Ranges Police Inspector Chris Large said police were aware of the situation and have spoken to community members.
He said police had received reports regarding vandalism in Romsey and at the local skate park.
“There is policing activity that has been undertaken to engage with people and to make the community feel safe,” he said.
“Some of the people in the group are known to the local community members.
“We’ve got a good handle on the situation. We are working with the council to improve the situation.
“We advise anyone with concerns to report it to triple-0 or Crime Stoppers. We do not want people to confront others.”
In a statement, Macedon Ranges council said it shared the community’s frustration with “this small group of people”.
“Council is aware of anti-social behaviour and destruction of property which has occurred at Lions Park Reserve and Romsey Skate Park,” the statement read.
“Council takes community concerns seriously and adapts and responds to changing situations.
“At the skate park toilet block, gates were installed in order to lock and protect them from vandalism at night.
“Council maintains CCTV cameras and willingly provides footage to Victoria Police.”
