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The latest crime statistics have been released by Victoria Police and the overall results, according to Sergeant John Higgins from Yarrawonga Police, are pleasing.

“There is a considerable downturn in dishonesty offences including theft and deception,” Sgt Higgins said.  “Theft of and from motor vehicles is down significantly however there was an increase in residential burglaries.  Overall, the statistics are pleasing for Yarrawonga.  This reflects community vigilance in notifying police of a suspected crime and we, as police, doing everything we possibly can to prevent and solve crimes.”

In 2012 there was a 43.3% decrease in car thefts in the Wangaratta region which incorporates Yarrawonga; theft from a motor vehicle was also down 6.6%.  Residential burglaries saw the largest increase, rising 32.1%.  There was a slight decrease in assaults excluding family violence at 3.4%, however, all assaults combined rose 4.5% from the previous year.  Incidences of property damaged decreased by 9% and reports of robbery showed no discernible change.

Inspector David Ryan said the significant reduction in theft of motor vehicle offences is perhaps the most relevant.  

“While the rural environment does not see large numbers of vehicles being stolen relative to the metropolitan area, the impact of a stolen vehicle on the victims is often more significant. I have taken the reduction to indicate an increased awareness by the public in the security of their vehicles,” he said.

Insp Ryan said he remained concerned at the high number of family violence related assaults that continue to occur across Alpine, Wangaratta and Moira areas.

“Much work needs to be done to reduce the incidence of family violence. Police remain strong in our commitment to support victims and charge perpetrators in every instance of assault arising from a family violence incident,” he said.  “The rise in the rate of residential burglary over the 12 month period has been continually addressed by police. Several significant arrests have occurred in the Moira and Wangaratta areas where multiple offenders have been charged with numerous offences.   There remains a need for the community to remain vigilant and consider their personal property security arrangements.”  

He said it was with sadness that he reflected on the continuing loss of lives on local roads over the holiday period.

“Fatal collisions in the Alpine and Moira areas have again impacted upon families. I remind all drivers of the need for concentration whilst driving,” Insp Ryan said.  “Texting will lead to you or some innocent person being killed or seriously injured on our roads.   Failing to heed the warning signs of fatigue will end in death. Failing to obey basic road rules such as the speed limit will result in you becoming another statistic.”