Detectives from the Ballarat Divisional Response Unit have reunited a man with his treasured 1956 Chevrolet Sedan, after a public appeal helped track down the stolen vehicle.
The vintage car which held deep sentimental value for the family, was stolen from a property in Smythes Creek on 27 February.
Following an appeal for information, members from the local community provided crucial information to detectives, including CCTV footage showing the vehicle being towed by a white Toyota Landcruiser through Lal Lal.
After conducting a thorough investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at a property in Lal Lal. where they discovered a shipping container concealing the stolen Chevrolet.
A search warrant was also executed at a property in Nintingbool where police arrested a 38-year-old Nintingbool man. Police also seized four dirt bikes which were allegedly stolen. He was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, burglary, handle stolen goods, criminal damage, theft, possess methamphetamine, possess cannabis, possess controlled weapon, and cultivate narcotic plant. He was remanded to appear before the Ballarat Magistrates' Court today.
Quotes attributable to Sergeant Samuel Young - Ballarat Divisional Response Unit:
"Today, police had the pleasure of reuniting the owner with his beloved car, and we can't thank the community enough for their assistance with this investigation.
"We understand how distressing it is to have something so valuable stolen, especially when it holds deep sentimental value. Our team was determined to reunite this car with its rightful owner, and we are pleased to see it safely returned.
"This case is a great reminder that even the smallest piece of information can make a big difference. We encourage anyone who sees something suspicious to report it, as it could be the key to solving a case.
"Victoria Police remains committed to investigating and disrupting vehicle theft and related crimes. If you're involved in this kind of offending, know that we will find you and hold you accountable."
