UPDATE: A massive police operation in Victoria has led to the arrest of 230 individuals linked to family violence, marking a significant crackdown on repeat offenders. This urgent blitz spanned multiple days throughout September and October 2023, targeting recidivist perpetrators in the north-west metro region.
Authorities confirm that the operation was executed by the Westgate Family Violence Investigation Unit and the Broadmeadows Family Violence Investigation Unit, in collaboration with the Family Violence Command Taskforce and the Public Order Response Team. The focus was on individuals known for committing multiple violent offenses against their current and former partners and children.
Among those apprehended was a 42-year-old man who was wanted for failing to appear in court for serious family violence offenses. Other arrests included a 35-year-old man accused of aggravated burglary related to family violence, a 42-year-old woman charged with assaulting another woman at a shopping center, and an 18-year-old man facing multiple counts of deception and property damage against his parents. A 37-year-old man was also arrested for persistently violating a family violence intervention order.
Police have also served 187 family violence intervention orders and executed over 120 outstanding warrants as part of this operation. Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Fiona Waters of the Westgate Family Violence Investigation Unit emphasized the importance of holding offenders accountable, stating,
“Family violence is completely unacceptable – which is why we will continue to work tirelessly to target and apprehend offenders and keep victims safe.”
Broadmeadows Family Violence Investigation Unit Detective Sergeant Chris Couacaud added,
“Those that choose to engage in this behaviour should think again. They will be tracked down by police and held to account.”
This operation highlights the urgent need for intervention in family violence cases. For individuals concerned about their behavior or that of someone else, support services are available. The organization No to Violence offers a Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491, assisting men in changing their violent behavior. Additional support can be accessed 24 hours a day through Safe Steps at 1800 015 188 or via email at [email protected]. In an emergency, always call triple-0 or ask someone to assist.
As the police continue their efforts to combat family violence, the community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior. This urgent crackdown is just the beginning of ongoing efforts to ensure safety for victims and accountability for perpetrators.
