This week in Parliament, The Nationals Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe highlighted the increasing crime rates in the Shepparton District and raised the frustrations and growing concerns of local business owners and residents.
Ms O’Keeffe referred to several incidents which have occurred over the past few weeks, including multiple break-ins at Bicaro’s Ristorante, an Italian restaurant owned by Gina Sozzi and her partner Sam Scarpari, which has been targeted three times in one month.
“Gina contacted me regarding the break-ins. The restaurant has faced significant losses, not just in terms of stolen stock but also in the damage to the property,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for proud business owners who are simply trying to make a living and contribute to Shepparton’s hospitality.
“Gina said something has to be done and called for tougher bail reform to get these offenders off the street.”
Another incident involved Ozmosis, a clothing store in Shepparton’s CBD, which was also broken into. The store suffered $15,000 worth of stolen stock and an additional $5,000 in damages.
“In Mooroopna, three businesses have also recently experienced severe damage to their buildings, resulting in significant repair costs,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
Ms O’Keeffe criticised the Allan Labor government for its recent decision to weaken bail laws and abolish the offence of committing an indictable offence while on bail.
“This decision has left our communities bewildered and feeling unsafe, knowing that offenders are likely to return,” she said.
“Our police are doing all they can by bringing offenders before the magistrate, only for them to receive a slap on the wrist and be back on the streets the same day.”
“What will it take for the Allan Labor Government to get serious about crime and bail penalties?
“I urge the government to reinstate section 30B of the Bail Act to establish that it is an offence for a person to commit an indictable offence whilst on bail.
“We need our communities and businesses to feel safe and have faith in the legal system.
“Under Labor, we’ve seen ten years of failure. They have not done enough to protect the people of Victoria.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our justice system, and Victorians are paying the price.”