Document Actions

Report from Murdoch Police Station 8 July 2010

Was it the nervous look on her face or her aimless pacing up and down the aisles of the store that were the tell-tale signs of a shop-lifter that raised the suspicions of a vigilant shop assistant?

As a result, store security were notified and, aided by CCTV, monitored the offenders movements as she entered various other stores and continued on her crime spree by stealing other things. Her booty included a purse from an unsuspecting shopper’s trolley. Next, it was an unsuccessful attempt to use a credit card to withdraw cash at an ATM.

However, police on patrol in the vicinity promptly attended and arrested the 38-year-old woman on suspicion of stealing.  The game was up for yet another shoplifter. She was charged with four counts of stealing, plus one count of fraud. She was bailed to appear at a later date in court.

By using common sense and preventative measures such as these handbag safety tips you can reduce the likelihood of being a victim of this crime:

  • Carry your hand bag close to your body when you are out
  • Keep your bag closed, the straps firm and your purse or money out of view
  • Open your purse when others are unable to see you do it

This was one of 29 complaints of stealing dealt with by Murdoch police this week. Irrespective of monetary or intrinsic value, some unsavoury types will seize any opportunity to nick property that isn’t theirs.

Aside from ongoing retail theft, unlocked vehicles have been the target, where the usual GPS units, cash, mobile phones and IPods are being targeted.  In other unusual pickings, a school bag and lunch box were take from a vehicle. 

There are proven strategies you can adopt to significantly reduce the chance of your vehicle being targeted:

  • Close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your car
  • Remove any items from your car which may entice a thief
  • Remove cheque books, credit cards, driver’s licence and registration papers from your glove box

 

Remember - stealing is a crime and carries a range of monetary penalties, including imprisonment if convicted.  The Murdoch Police Station is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 4.00pm but our officers patrol this area 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Please remember that if you need police assistance contact 131 444, or if you have information regarding any criminal activity contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 where your identity can remain confidential. Save 000 for life threatening emergencies only.

 

Regards,

Sergeant Gerard O’Meara, Murdoch Police Station