AACS: PETROL THEFT FOCUS PAYS EARLY DIVIDENDS

December 4, 2018: The We See You campaign targeting petrol theft criminals in Victoria has run for over a month now and, with more leads coming in, reporting levels up and an arrest already made, the Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) has called for Crimestoppers to double down on the campaign and intensify the crack down on these thieves.
Petrol theft is the obvious starting point for a zero tolerance approach to crime, AACS CEO Jeff Rogut says, and the initial success of the We See You campaign shines a light on what’s possible when industry and the authorities work together.
Mr Rogut says the campaign should now be extended to cover more suburban areas, with greater resources provided to petrol retailers, an increase in advertising budget as the Christmas holidays loom, and the formal support of the Police Minister.
“The AACS has repeatedly reinforced the importance for Government, law enforcement and the judicial system to implement a tough, coordinated response when it comes to legislating, investigating and sentencing people who commit crimes against small businesses,” Mr Rogut says.
“The We See You campaign has provided a glimpse of what’s possible when a genuine attempt to crack down on crimes is undertaken. But it’s important from an industry and law enforcement perspective not to rest on our laurels.
“The AACS urges Government and Victoria Police to intensify the targeting of petrol theft criminals, and other criminals who commit crimes against convenience stores, to build on the positive results that have been achieved to date.”
Those positive results include more leads on criminals who have committed petrol theft offences, growth in the number of information reports filed, a strong level of media and social media engagement with members of the public, improved communication between industry and police, and the campaign’s first arrest.
“There is now greater recognition across the community of the fact that petrol theft is a crime, and with Christmas around the corner – a time when petrol theft traditionally spikes – we need to keep our foot on the gas, so to speak,” Mr Rogut says.
Victoria Police recently changed its stance on petrol theft, announcing its commitment to investigate each and every incident.
Mr Rogut says the support of the Police Minister to increase the pressure on petrol thieves would send an even stronger signal that these crimes will no longer be tolerated – and those who commit them can expect to face the full force of the law.

Further information:
Jeff Rogut
Chief Executive Officer
Australasian Association of Convenience Stores
Ph: +61 467 873 789