MELBOURNE: Crackdown on retail thieves
Victoria Police ‘Operation Stand’ officers continue to crack down on recidivist and aggressive retail thieves in the Melbourne CBD and Yarra areas.
Their latest catch was a 38-year-old Footscray man who is alleged to have stolen more than $30,000 worth of goods from supermarkets, department stores and other retail outlets between October and May.
Goodsd allegedly stolen include vitamins, medicines, sanitary goods, perfumes/fragrances, baby formula and luxury handbags.
It is believe that the goods were then on-sold to a third party buyer.
The man was arrested in Carnegie on Thursday (June 4) and has been charged with 44 counts of shop steal.
He has been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on December 1.
Operation Stand was launched in July 2024 and has a dedicated team of police engaging daily with retailers to identity thieves and hold them to account.
Since its launch, the team has made more than 230 arrests and laid 1335 charges.
Acting Sergeant Brendan Mason said: “Operation Stand remains committed to holding to account prolific and aggressive retail thieves.
“Anyone thinking of coming into the city to steal for profit should know it won’t be long until we’re knocking on your door.”to steal for profit should know it won’t be long until we’re knocking on your door.”