SEX ASSAULTS

VIOLENT crimes are on the rise across Greater Geelong despite the region recording a small drop in total crime last year. New Crime Statistics Agency data shows in the year ending December 2017, Greater Geelong recorded three less criminal offences — a decrease of 0.013 per cent — when compared to the previous year. During that time, the number of assaults rose 6.72 per cent, sexual assaults went up 57.31 per cent and robbery increased 19.75 per cent. There was a significant drop in property crimes, with arson down 24.11 per cent, burglary down 12.34 per cent and theft down 17.86 per cent. Aggravated burglary — where victims were home at the time of the break-in — dropped 1.83 per cent with 214 reports recorded.

There was a total of 22,998 recorded crimes across Greater Geelong during 2017.

Acting Superintendent Graham Banks said the increase in robberies was of concern to police, although for the majority of these offences police had been able to identify and arrest suspects. He said the increase in assaults would be a major focus for police in 2018 with the force’s new assigned police officers set to monitor suburban shopping strips, skate parks and community hubs.

“While many victims and assailants are known to each other, many are not, with offences occurring in public places. Through the provision of additional staff that we are currently receiving, and who will be coming over the next 12 months, we will be tasking