By Alesha Capone
Police have arrested 10 people after executing warrants at properties across the west last week, as part of an operation targeting graffiti vandals.
More than 700 charges were laid against the alleged offenders, including a 22-year-old Truganina man who was charged with 295 counts of graffiti-related offences such as conduct endangering life, criminal damage, burglary, possess with the intent to damage and trespass.
A 21-year-old Yarraville man was charged with 121 counts of graffiti-related offences including conduct endangering life, criminal damage, burglary, possess with the intent to damage and trespass.
Another five people – a 23-year-old Truganina man, a 20-year-old Altona man, a 20-year-old South Kingsville man, a 30-year-old Seaford man and a 31-year-old West Footscray man – were charged with more than 300 counts of graffiti-related offences collectively.
All of those charged were bailed to appear in court at a later date.
Police said a 30-year-old Tarneit man, a 20-year-old Altona Meadows man and a 46-year-old South Kingsville woman would also be charged on summons.
A number of items were seized from the properties searched including two cars, cannabis plants, quantities of ecstasy and ice, cash, laptops, phones and hard drives.
Acting Superintendent Andrew Gustke said the results showed Victoria Police’s dedication to holding graffiti vandals to account.
“We’ve seen horrific injuries and even deaths as a result of the risky behaviour people engage it to commit these offences so we take it extremely seriously,” he said.
