By CASEY NEILL
HOONS flattened dozens of newly-planted trees in Dandenong South last Tuesday night.
Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said vandalism of this scale was rare in the municipality but the incident in Bayliss Street and National Road was a concern.
“Council has reported this matter to the police and, where possible, will pursue the costs of repairs through the courts,” she said.
“Council encourages anyone who sees senseless acts of vandalism like this to report the matter to both police and council immediately.”
The vandals left skidmarks throughout the streets and branches and leaves strewn across the roadside.
The area on Dandenong South’s fringe is a hooning hot spot.
Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Scott Roberts earlier this year told the Journal that police were targeting National Drive and Monash Drive in Dandenong South.
He said police would hit hoons hard with roadworthy checks, fines and charges at their regular meeting points.
Sen Sgt Roberts said many businesses in the industrial areas had CCTV cameras and police would use footage to track down offenders.
He said most people involved were young and a criminal conviction would affect the rest of their lives.
Sen Sgt Roberts urged the public to note registrations, and even take video footage if safe to do so, and call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
