Police patrol
with Brodie Cowburn
Dating app worries
Stay safe on roads
POLICE are urging victims to come forward to report sexual assaults committed by people that have been met on dating apps. A police statement released earlier this month read that “instances of predatory sexual behaviour on dating apps” is becoming a greater worry. Sexual Crimes Squad Detective Inspector Juliann Goldrick said “I want to assure the community and victims of sexual assault that Victoria Police is committed to investigating these matters and holding offenders to account”. “In terms of dating apps, we might have people who are unsure about making a report because the person has blocked or removed their profile on the app, or maybe a lengthy period of time has passed and victims are worried it has been too long,” she said. “It’s crucial for police that we play a role in clearing up any misconceptions around reporting sexual assault, especially where the victim has connected with the offender via a dating app. I cannot stress enough that it is never the victim’s responsibility to determine whether or not there is enough evidence to investigate a sexual offence or solve a crime. “I think it’s crucial that victims understand that reporting to the dating app is not reporting to police, and so we encourage people to speak to us when they have been subject to concerning behaviour. “Everyone in our community has a right to go about their lives, meet new people or start a relationship without fear of being a victim of crime.”
A ROAD safety operation has been launched by Victoria Police after a horror week of fatalities. Seven people died on Victorian roads in the week following 14 October. Operation “Saturn” has now been launched, with more resources going towards road policing. Road Policing Command Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy said “we expect that road trauma will increase as more people get back on our roads. It is devastating to me that in the last week seven people have already fallen victim to this.” “Operation Saturn comes at a critical time for the Victorian community, with easing of some restrictions coinciding with two long weekends,” she said. “We’re urging everyone to go back to basics. That means buckling up, slowing down, and not driving while impaired. “For those in metro Melbourne, it’s the first time in a while we’ve been able to move further than 5km from home. Be patient, exercise caution and drive slowly to ensure that you keep yourself and other road users safe. Expect to see vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists around populated areas like parks and beaches and drive accordingly.” Police are also warning that regular PBTs and drug tests will be up and running. “We know that the number of drink and drug drivers typically increases on Grand Final weekend and during the Melbourne Cup Carnival,” AC Murphy said. The operation runs until 8 November.
Credit card from stolen car used A CREDIT card from a stolen car has been used to buy alcohol in Seaford. Just before 1pm on 19 September, a card that had been taken from the car was used. An image of a man police wish to speak to in relation to the use of the card has been released (above). Police describe the man as “Caucasian, between 20 to 30-years-old, wearing a hi-visibility jacket, and football club beanie.” The stolen car was recovered on Old Wells Road at 3.30pm on 20 September. Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers.
Victoria, you know fire. The 2020-21 fire season is coming and we’re about to start an important fire safety campaign. With last season’s memories so fresh, some people may find it confronting. If you have any concerns, or you or a loved one are emotionally affected by the campaign, support is available on our website, or by calling Lifeline 13 11 14.
Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News 28 October 2020
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