ACT Policing will again conduct Project School Safe, in which ACT schools and colleges will be the subject of greater police patrols to protect these properties from vandals and thieves during the Christmas holidays.
The number of property damage offences increased from 12 in the 2011-12 summer holiday period to 29 in the same period for 2012-13. The cost to the community for repairing the damage at schools can be in the tens of thousands of dollars for this period.
ACT Policing is appealing to all residents, particularly those who live near a school, to support their local community and assist police in keeping an eye out on their local school during the summer holiday period.
“It is very disappointing for police to see an increase in offences from one year to the next. This is why we appeal to the community to help us by keeping an eye out and reporting any suspicious behaviour around our schools,” Acting Superintendent Jeff Knight said.
“Police will be stepping up patrols around schools over the holiday period to deter any would-be thieves and vandals.”
ACT Policing will target criminal and anti-social behaviour, such as graffiti, vandalism or trespass, at ACT schools during the Christmas/summer holidays when offence numbers generally peak.
During holidays police see an increase of property offences such as burglary, graffiti and vandalism at schools.
If you see anyone committing an offence or acting suspiciously around a school, contact Police Operations on 131 444. Alternatively, you can report any incidents to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.act.crimestoppers.com.au. This information can be provided anonymously.
Project School Safe begins Friday, 20 December 2013 and will end Sunday, 2 February 2014.
[Courtesy ACT Policing]