A NEW Wimmera Crime Scene Unit has been established in Stawell which will significantly increase the level of policing in the region.
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The unit is being led by Sergeant Di Thomson and will see seven day a week coverage for the division.
"The unit is well and truly up and running and based here in Stawell," Sgt Thomson said.
"Basically, the members in the division cover all things forensic.
"In the past, there was one Crime Scene Officer based in Stawell and one in Horsham, but this unit will see full coverage by members, who will attend to all needs of the community."
Sgt Thomson said the unit would respond to all serious crimes and cold property crime.
"We will be working closely with the community to decrease the number of opportunistic thefts that occur," Sgt Thomson said.
"It's great that the community feels safe enough to not lock their cars or their homes. However, the other side to that is, unfortunately a lot of things are stolen only because cars or homes are left unlocked.
The Wimmera Crime Scene Division covers Ararat, Stawell and Horsham, up to speed, across to the Pyrenees and down south through the Western District.
Sgt Thomson said it was a large area, but with a Sergeant based in Stawell full time and two officers each in Stawell and Horsham, the area would be well covered.
"What this means is communities within the division are receiving really good service coverage by the police," Sgt Thomson said.
Sgt Thomson said as part of the unit's commitment to raising awareness within the community, each time there is a theft from a motor car, every residence in that street is sent a letter.
The letter ensures residents are made aware of the theft and that police have been investigating the theft.
"You may be surprised to learn just how common this offence has become," the letter states.
"Unfortunately the days of leaving our vehicles unlocked and assuming that no one will take the opportunity to open your vehicle door and have a look inside are gone.
"Generally, thieves will simply try the door handle of a vehicle, and if it is found to be unlocked then quietly open the door and steal what- ever you may have inside the car. Often people leave money, mobile phones, I Pads, Laptops, CD's, handbags and other items in plain view in their unlocked vehicles.
"At times, if a thief can view an item of value in the vehicle such as a wallet or handbag, they may even break a window to reach in and take the item in view.
"Sadly leaving our vehicles unlocked does encourage thieves to be opportunistic and look for the easy theft. This letter is to let you know that a theft has occurred in your street and to extend an invitation to you to form a partnership with Victoria Police, and in particular the local Stawell Police, in trying to prevent the number of thefts from cars, in particular unlocked cars.
"All we are suggesting is that you form the habit of locking your vehicle every time you step out of it. Whether this is down the street shopping, visiting a friend, at the local footy or netball game, during the day or in the evening. We would also like to suggest that you remove anything of value from your vehicle, or if you must leave an item of value in the vehicle lock the item in the boot so it cannot be seen or removed from the car.
"If you have been the victim of a theft then you will realise the awful feeling of wondering if the thieves have accessed your bank account before you have had time to cancel your credit cards, or the inconvenience of having to replace all the personal items within your wallet or handbag, or the cost when replacing or claiming expensive items through insurance.
"The police are committed to investigating and charging any offenders we can identify for the TFMV crimes however, the best approach is to prevent the crime in the first instance.
Everyone works hard to ensure their families are well supported and have the comforts and mobile accessories required for this day and age.
"Please consider the opportunity to work with the local police in ensuring those that do not work as hard do not end up with your belongings. The police alone cannot solve this problem, together we can achieve more."