Fifteen youths charged over violent crimes in Melbourne, Shepparton
More than 50 charges have been laid against 15 youths believed to be responsible for violent crimes and home invasions across Melbourne's north and Shepparton.
The 12 males and three females – aged between 14 and 21 – were arrested this week as part of Operation Liege, Victoria Police's crackdown on state-wide and cross-region youth offending.
The alleged offending relates to more than 20 incidents in Melbourne's north-western suburbs and Shepparton this year.
One of those charged, a 14-year-old Shepparton boy, is accused of 21 offences, including home invasion, multiple counts of aggravated burglary, armed robbery and car theft.
A 17-year-old Airport West boy has been charged with 14 offences and a 16-year-old Preston boy has been charged with eight offences.
All three will face children's court at a later date.
Some of the youths have been arrested for allegedly stealing alcohol from shops in Shepparton and Melton between January and March this year.
North West Metro Region Commander Tim Hansen said police believed some youths were stealing alcohol in the lead-up to long weekends and stockpiling it for short-term rental parties.
Police have arrested scores of youths under Operations Liege, including 57 across Melbourne in October last year.