City Issues Warning to Tree Vandals

The warning comes from Mayor Russell Aubrey after an 18-year-old Leeming resident was  charged with criminal damage for destroying five Council trees.

As a consequence of the recent criminal conviction, the City successfully pursued a claim for damages for the replacement cost of the trees. The teenager is now obligated to pay a judgement debt of $4228.10.

Mayor Aubrey said he was pleased with the result but the City remained on high alert for other acts of vandalism.

“As part of my promise to the community, the City has adopted a zero tolerance approach to crime,” he said.

“This latest prosecution sends a clear message that any damage to Council property will not be tolerated.

“In particular anyone who, intentionally or accidently, damages Council trees will be charged. Trees are a community asset and the protection of trees is a key priority for the City.”

The Mayor said tree vandals include people who poison or chop down verge-side trees to stop leaves dropping or because the tree is blocking a view.

“These people are in the minority but they are tree vandals all the same,” he said.

The City of Melville’s Parks and Environment team plants around 250 100L verge trees each year. The trees are planted and maintained to provide shade, a habitat for birds and native animals and to boost the appearance of the streetscape.

Residents concerned about damage to Council trees should call Parks Services on:

9364 0677.