By BRIDGET SCOTT
CASEY Inspector Wayne Viney has spoken again on the issue of family violence following the release of the most recent crime statistics.
In an attempt to raise awareness about the issue, Inspector Viney said the increase in reported crime was an indication that victims of family violence were coming forward to seek help.
The overall recorded crime rate for the area has increased by 6.4 per cent, but Inspector Viney is remaining positive.
“Although we have seen a 6.4 per cent increase in reported total crime, this is largely due to the continued increased reporting of family violence,” he said.
“Although increased reporting reflects poorly in statistical returns, it means those women and children who need our support and protection are coming forward in record numbers to seek help,” he said.
Inspector Viney took the opportunity to condemn family violence and touch on the harm associated with the issue.
“Gender equity is not just another politically correct catch-phrase,” he said.
“Everyone has the right to be treated with respect and to feel safe, particularly in their own homes.”
Inspector Viney said Casey police apply a zero tolerance approach to the crime.
“I encourage any women who are in abusive relationships to come forward in the knowledge that we will take their complaint seriously and take appropriate action.”
Inspector Viney said he was pleased with other crime categories.
“We have seen excellent reductions by conducting targeted patrols and focussing our resources on recidivist offenders,” he said.
The launch of a Safe Southeast will make up another targeted patrol, which will focus on crime against property in the area.
Police are partnering with mayors from the City of Casey, Cardinia Shire and City of Greater Dandenong to reduce thefts and burglaries in the home, in cars and from businesses.
Inspector Viney said he was also pleased to see a reduction in the number of people injured and hurt on the roads, given the huge focus on reducing the road toll.
“It is fantastic to see that we have had more than a 9 per cent reduction in the number of people injured on our roads,” he said.
This reduction means 69 fewer people were injured over the past year – leaving fewer families experiencing the grief associated with road trauma.
Despite this, Inspector Viney said that 671 people injured on the roads in the past 12 months is still a sobering statistic which can be reduced further.
While there has been a drop in some statistics, the number of drug offences has increased in Casey and beyond by more than 20 per cent, plus there has been a sharp rise in theft from cars.
Inspector Viney encouraged drivers to be aware and take actions to help reduce the risk of their property being stolen.
“We consistently try to get this message across, but car thieves are opportunists,” he said.
“We don’t have enough police to patrol every street – be responsible for your own belongings by removing all your valuables and locking your car.”
“It’s that simple.”
