Busting crime the way ahead

By Shaun Inguanzo
A FIVE-year plan to slash crime in Greater Dandenong was the centre of attention in a room of high-ranking police officials and journalists last week.
Victoria Police launched its The Way Ahead 2008-13 document last Thursday that outlines the basic approach it will take to reducing crime statistics in the region.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Emmett Dunne, head of Region Five which includes Greater Dandenong and Casey, said the plan sought to reduce crime by 12 per cent.
“In the 2003-08 plan, Victoria Police’s target was to reduce crime by five per cent, and up to September last year, we had exceeded that significantly with a 16 per cent reduction,” Mr Dunne said.
“Road fatalities were also reduced by 25.2 per cent, 5.2 per cent more than the goal.
“Building on the successes of the previous plan, The Way Ahead 2008-13 focuses on providing a safer Victoria, connecting the community and valuing Victoria Police’s people.”
The Way Ahead 2008-13 was formally launched by Chief Commissioner Christine Nixon and Premier John Brumby in Melbourne on Tuesday 29 January, but Mr Dunne said it was important that police in Victoria’s suburban areas were also acknowledged for the fantastic work they do in driving down crime.
“The hard work and dedication of our regional police members cannot be underestimated as they have played a significant role in reducing our crime rate and making our roads safer,” Mr Dunne said.
“It is pleasing to today be addressing these members and expressing our gratitude for the fantastic work the members do and highlight how they can assist in achieving our new goals.
“Everyone, from a constable working on a divisional van to senior command will play a significant role in making The Way Ahead 2008-13 a success and ensuring that less Victorians become victims of crime.”