Investigation into vandalism, burglaries
Scott Hall, Ross Watson, Nick Hopkins and Maxwell Webster at the Men’s Shed which had $2000 worth of tools stolen from it in a burglasy last weekend.
August 28, 2024
Police are investigating a spate of vandalism and burglaries in the Scottsdale area with those targeted frustrated by the “entitlement” of perpetrators.
About $2000 worth of goods were stolen from the Dorset Men’s Shed on Christopher St, the Shell Pineview Service Station was hit by a break-in and Dorset Council is still counting the cost of damage at the Recreation Ground toilet block.
A Police spokesperson said the incidents did not appear to be related.
Vandalism at the Scottsdale Rec Ground occurred between Friday, August 23
and 25.
CCTV footage has been captured along with photos of vandalism and reported to the Police for investigation.
Dorset Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said damage caused to the amenities included a hand basin torn from the wall, smashed tiles, busted plumbing fixtures and smashed toilet cisterns.
The same toilet block was subject to graffiti a few weeks ago, he said.
“It is extremely disappointing that vandalism to community assets continues to occur. Not only is vandalism a cost burden to ratepayers, it also renders community infrastructure unusable while repairs are undertaken,” he said.
Police are also investigating burglary and stealing at the Shell business on George St overnight on August 22.
Owner David Clough said it was frustrating.
“They smashed a rear window and ransacked the place looking for cigarettes and cash – they made a bloody mess,” Mr Clough said.
“You can’t stop them – they’ll just get away with a slap on the wrist if they find them anyway. It’s a real nuisance.”
A burglary and stealing occured at the Men's Shed between August 16 – 19.
Men's Shed President Nick Hopkins said a side gate had been cut from the Recreation Ground and they levered a window to gain entry.
Mr Hopkins said it was very frustrating, a sentiment echoed by fellow member Scott Hall.
“For a group that is community based, that’s not for profit, that is doing good to be targeted by those that think they are entitled to it is very disappointing,” Mr Hall said.
The shed has 22 members who spend time working on individual projects, repairing items and providing community donations by selling items such as fire kindling.
“Most of the tools that were taken were actually owned by individuals who had brought them to work with them and some of them were owned by the shed – there is a question with the insurers at the moment but with the cost of excess it probably won’t be worth it,” member Merv Chilcott said.
“We are in a changing community. It’s not that long ago that you could leave your doors unlocked and keys in the car but you just can’t do that anymore,” Mr Chilcott said.
Anyone with information should call Scottsdale Police on 131444 or report to Crime Stoppers.