Eastern Region Division 1 Crime Team detectives arrested five boys yesterday as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged homophobic assaults.
Police allege a group of youths have been using a dating app to pose as an adult male to lure gay men to parklands in the Ashwood area.
The victims were then allegedly assaulted and subjected to homophobic comments.
The three incidents occurred at a reserve on Harlequin Avenue:
• A 47-year-old Glen Waverley man was assaulted on 16 December, 2021 about 9pm. He was not physically injured.
• A 42-year-old man from Ashwood was assaulted on 18 December, 2021 about 1am. He sustained facial injuries
• A 27-year-old man from Ashwood was assaulted 7 January, 2022 about 2am. He sustained minor injuries.
Police executed search warrants yesterday morning at three separate properties in Ashwood arresting two 14-year-old boys, two 15-year-old boys and a 16-year-old boy.
The boys were all released yesterday afternoon and are expected to be charged on summons with assault and robbery offences.
A 19-year-old Ashwood man was also arrested on 27 January, 2022 as part of the ongoing investigation.
He has been summonsed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates' Court for attempted robbery and recklessly cause injury.
Police have increased their patrols of parks and gardens around the Ashwood area.
ED1 Divisional Crime Team Detective Sergeant Brendon Pollock said everyone had a right to feel safe, including members of our LGBTIQ community.
"Prejudice motivated crime has no place in our society," he said.
"Police treat any incidents motivated by hate seriously and we will act swiftly when we receive any reports.
"Victoria Police is committed to ensuring the safety of all members of our community, including Beat users."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
