Video Busters owner Robert Reid is angry about the continued vandalism to his store in Main Street, Pakenham.
By Callan Date
MINDLESS vandals have continued their attack on Pakenham shop fronts with a second lot of incidents occurring in Main Street last week.
Businesses had their windows defaced with large scratches in the glass causing a great deal of frustration among traders.
The latest incidents occurred on top of 12 Pakenham stores suffering vandalised front windows a fortnight ago, with Pakenham police now urging the public to help provide any information that will catch the vandals.
Video Busters owner Robert Reid said his store had been subjected to a number of vandalism attacks in the past year, the latest causing damage to his front window.
“I have had eggs thrown at my store before,” he said.
“I also have a heap of deep scratches in the shop window thanks to some kids who have nothing better to do,” Mr Reid said.
Senior Sergeant Russell Patten said police have increased random patrols in the area and have appealed for the public to report any suspicious behaviour in Main Street.
“We are addressing the on-going problem but we really need some assistance from members of the public to catch the people that are causing this damage,” Sen Sgt Patten said.
Traders believe local youths are most likely to be responsible for the attacks and want something done immediately.
In a response, Cardinia Council has formed the Cardinia Youth Strategy Steering Committee – established to identify and plan a vision for young people in the area.
Councillor Brett Owen will head the group and said stopping vandalism will be part of the committee’s objectives.
“The current vandalism in Pakenham seems to be coming from a small amount of people who are unfortunately causing a great deal of inconvenience to shop owners,” Mr Owen said.
The Central Ward councillor said the group would be looking at a number of measures to stop young people vandalising property and also ensure there is plenty of activities to keep them entertained.
“We will involve a number of community groups including local schools and police officers and we will all be working together to get the best outcome for the youth of Cardinia,” he said,
But Mr Reid said he believed the committee would be a waste of both time and money.
“I live in Narre Warren and they tried to do a similar thing with the youth out there and it has made little difference,” he said.
Anyone with information regarding the repeated vandalism attacks in Main Street is asked to contact Pakenham Police on 5941 1033.
