Man charged with rustling after police round up dozens of lost lambs
Police were up before dawn on Tuesday, raiding two rural properties and rounding up about 70 sheep along with two alleged rustlers.
Detectives from the Eastern Region Crime Squad and Victoria Police's agricultural liaison officers raided properties in Clonbinane and Fosterville.
A 25-year-old Ringwood East man was charged with two counts of theft, handling stolen goods and firearm offences. He was bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 9.
A 46-year-old Bendigo man was interviewed and released pending further inquiries.
Police believe the alleged sheep theft occurred over the past nine months.
Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Dwyer said the force was focused on reducing livestock and farm theft affecting regional and rural Victoria.
‘‘Often these kinds of investigations can be quite complex however we want to reassure the community that police take reports of stock theft very seriously,’’ Detective Senior Sergeant Dwyer said.
‘‘Our AGLOs are an important resource within Victoria Police and have expert skills in investigating livestock and farm crime.’’
Agricultural liaison officers oversee farm crime and livestock theft investigations across Victoria.
‘‘We continue to work closely with farmers throughout the state to encourage the reporting of livestock and farm-related thefts,’’ Detective Senior Sergeant Dwyer said.
‘‘If a member of the public wishes to speak to an AGLO they can call their local police station and request to speak to one.
‘‘It’s important that any incident is always reported to police at the earliest opportunity so that we can investigate fully.’’
If you see any suspicious behaviour you can report it to police or to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
AAP, Bendigo Advertiser