A spike in vehicular crime has been reported across Tasmania in the last 12 months, with approximately 3,400 thefts and burglaries committed, police say.
In the last year, 1,746 vehicles were reported stolen and 1,740 were broken into for the purpose of stealing valuables.
Acting Commander John King said police charged offenders for 37% of stolen motor vehicle offences and 27% of motor vehicle burglary offences.
“Information from the community can assist police to increase this charging percentage, and to deter further offences,” King said.
“If you know anything about a crime, I encourage you to report to Crime Stoppers Tasmania to assist police in detecting offenders, preventing crime, and ultimately keeping our community safe,” he said.
Vehicle-related crime has increased compared to five years ago, particularly in the state’s South, with vehicles being stolen for various reasons, including joyrides, transportation, committing further offences and harvesting valuable parts.
It is estimated that around 76% of stolen vehicles are recovered by police.
The statistics come as Crime Stoppers report a 35% increase in tips and shift their focus to vehicle crime by putting thieves in the headlights.
Crime Stoppers Chair David Daniels OAM said people have “had enough of those criminally minded in our community looking to make a quick buck at their expense”.
“Crime Stoppers Week is focused on vehicle related crime, as we have seen an opportunity to focus our efforts to support Tasmania Police to deliver their ‘back to basics’ policing model,” Daniels said.
If you see or hear something that doesn’t seem right, report it at crimestopperstas.com.au or by phoning 1800 333 000.
