WE NEED A STRONGER RESPONSE TO CRIME

The Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has thrown its support behind Victoria Police calls for a stronger legislative response to more appropriately punish violent thieves which commit crimes against retailers.

As the community reels from an increase in so-called “swarming thefts”, where larger groups of criminals use intimidatory violence as a stealing tactic, North West Metro Commander Tim Hansen said police planned to lobby government to try and create a new ‘aggravated shop steal’ offence.

AACS CEO Jeff Rogut agrees a stronger legislative response is needed to deter and punish violent criminals.

“Anyone who robs from honest retailers, and especially those who use violence in doing so, have no place in our community. We want to see them removed from the streets and punished appropriately,” Mr Rogut said.

“It undermines the good work of police to apprehend these thieves only for the judicial system to give them a slap on the wrist and send them back out into the community to re-offend.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to face the threat of violence as they go about their work. We need police, the court system and law-makers to be on the same page on this issue. Get these criminals off our streets and make them pay for the physical, emotional, psychological and financial harm they inflict on their victims.”

Convenience stores operators and staff are too often the victims of violent robberies, usually targeting cigarettes given the enormous excise on tobacco products which drives prices so high.

“There needs to be a clear message sent to people who commit these crimes that they will pay an extremely hefty price,” Mr Rogut said.

“But this is broader than just the convenience industry. This goes to the heart of what we want our communities to be. We want to feel safe, for people to be able to go to work and not worry about being hurt, and for small businesses to serve their customers without worrying about who’s coming through the door.

“This requires the toughest possible penalties for those who assault and steal from honest retailers and their staff.”

Further information:                                                                                     

Jeff Rogut                                                                                             

Chief Executive Officer                                                                 

Australasian Association of Convenience Stores                                 

Ph: +61 467 873 789

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