January 14th, 2024Man charged following $50K shop theft spree

Police have arrested a man in recent days following a series of alleged thefts from retail stores across Melbourne.

Investigators from Box Hill Divisional Response Unit will allege the man targeted stores in more than 20 suburbs across Melbourne between August and December 2023.

It’s believed the man predominantly stole top shelf alcohol from stores, totalling $51,700.

During a routine patrol, the man was located by police and arrested in Springvale on January 4.

A 38-year-old man of no fixed address was charged with 35 counts of theft, possess cannabis, and possess controlled weapon without lawful excuse. He was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates Court at a later date.

Detective Senior Sergeant Sean Audley – Box Hill Divisional Response Unit: “The financial and mental burden theft can inflict on shop owners and their staff is severe.

“We take any kind of theft seriously and we will work tirelessly to hold those to account.

“We encourage anyone who may have information to this incident or similar incidents to contact crime stoppers so we can investigate.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report via the Crime Stoppers website.