More than 170 people have received offers of help from police and support services during a two-week operation focused on aggressive begging in Melbourne's CBD and Carlton last month.
While the primary intention of the operation is to aid rough sleepers and beggars, there was also 26 people arrested by police for offences including outstanding warrants, shop steal, theft, possess prohibited weapon and proceeds of crime.
One person arrested was wanted on 20 outstanding warrants.
Operation Brightside is a joint operation led by Victoria Police with support from the City of Melbourne, The Salvation Army and cohealth aimed at addressing homelessness and begging in the CBD.
The key focus is to understand the root cause of the issue of those experiencing homelessness.
Once this is understood, support agencies such as The Salvation Army and cohealth can provide appropriate assistance and support to these people.
The operation led to the following results:
• Engaged with 172 people, offering them referrals to relevant support services, with 11 referrals being accepted.
• 22 people moved on for blocking the footpath and were also offered referrals for support.
• 26 people arrested.
• Issued 18 infringements for traffic related offences.
• Cleared 14 outstanding whereabouts.
Victoria Police runs operations such as these to ensure everyone in the city is safe, and to ensure footpaths are clear and accessible for the rest of the community.
There is a dedicated police presence maintained across the city 24/7, with targeted patrols in key areas conducted every day and night.
If anyone witnesses crime or anti-social behaviour in the city, we urge them to contact Triple Zero (000) for an immediate police response.
Anyone who has information about criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Melbourne West Local Area Commander, Acting Inspector Paul Topham:
"Everyone should feel safe when they are coming into the city, and the amenity of the area often reflects how safe people feel.
"Being homeless is not an offence, and it requires a multi-layered response that is dignified and supportive, rather than just simply police or other agencies issuing a fine.
"This operation sees police working together with council and support services to firstly find out why the person is sleeping rough, before working on ways we can all help them get back on their feet.
"That said, if there is criminal activity occurring, police will have no hesitation in making arrests - as the operation's results show.
"We have also been focused on ensuring footpaths are clear as this creates accessibility and safety issues, particularly for vision impaired and those with mobility issues.
"We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure we have a greater understanding of the challenges faced by those who are vulnerable, while also ensuring everyone in the city is safe, and feels safe."
