A new pilot program in Wyndham will get young offenders to clean up graffiti around the region.
The Youth Diversion pilot program – an initiative of Wyndham council, Victoria Police and the Werribee Magistrates Court – will identify young people who have attended court for offences relating to property damage and direct them to work with the council to remove graffiti.
Sergeant Andrew Wilkinson, of the proactive policing unit, said the program would have a range of benefits.
“Offenders need to learn the impact their behaviour is having on the wider community.
“While they might think graffiti is a harmless crime, a lot of local businesses and residents are counting the costs of having to remove it.
“We’re looking forward to this program and, hopefully, we’ll see a reduction in repeat offenders,” Sergeant Wilkinson said.
Wyndham councillor Michele Wharrie said the program offered a second chance to young people presenting to the justice system.
The pilot program starts this month.
