Trigger warning: This article contains descriptions of domestic violence.
A grim surge in family and domestic violence has had Victoria Police working around the clock. In a single week, there were 161 call outs in Melbourne’s southeast — specifically in Greater Dandenong, Casey, and Cardinia.
Seven-Day Blitz Leads to 58 Arrests
The seven-day blitz in April resulted in 58 alleged offenders being charged with approximately 290 domestic and family violence offences. Six of the perpetrators were habitual offenders, committing multiple family violence offences against their partners and children over extended periods, according to Victoria Police.
Disturbing Cases
One of the offenders, a 28-year-old man, allegedly killed his family dog and persistently violated his family violence intervention order. Another, a 35-year-old man also accused of persistently violating a family violence intervention order, allegedly used a handgun to threaten and rob his former partner. A third alleged offender, a 36-year-old man, is accused of strangling his former partner, threatening to kill the victim with a hammer, dousing the front porch of their home with petrol, and trying to set it alight. All three men were arrested and charged, with court dates to be set.
Other alleged offending leading to arrests during the week of mass arrests included harassment, property damage, rape, and non-fatal strangulation.
Breakdown of Call Outs
Of the 161 call outs, 85 were in Casey, 45 in Greater Dandenong, and 31 in Cardinia. Victoria Police was unable to provide further breakdown of the blitz data, such as offender gender or the exact dates of the operation.
Police Response
Dandenong Family Violence Investigation Unit Senior Sergeant Jason Iles said the alarming number of call outs and charges highlights the unfortunate reality that family violence remains on the rise. He stated, “It will not be tolerated by police. These perpetrators committing these crimes are on our radar and we are actively monitoring their movements to keep victims safe.”
“When we attend these call outs we don’t hesitate to arrest and lay charges if we identify any offences. Whether it’s perpetrators threatening victims or breaching intervention orders — they will be caught and held to account.” Iles added, “We want our community to know that if you report family violence we will take action and do everything we can to ensure your safety.”
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call triple-0. For advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence, call 1300 766 491.
