By Tanya Steele
A 39-year-old man has been arrested following a series of thefts in Ferntree Gully earlier this week.
In the early hours of 8 April, Rowville police discovered a heavily damaged vehicle abandoned on the side of the road. The owner of the vehicle was not present at the scene.
Later that same night, the vehicle was allegedly used in the theft of parts from a factory in Ferntree Gully. In a twist of events, the stolen parts were reportedly returned unintentionally when the vehicle’s boot opened as the offender fled the scene.
Shortly after, the same vehicle was allegedly involved in the theft of commercial items from a local business. The offender fled before police could arrive.
In the early hours of 10 April, police located the vehicle parked in Rowville. A search of the car revealed several stolen items, including a large safe.
Later that night, officers responded to reports of a suspicious male in the area.
With assistance from the Dog Squad, police arrested a 39-year-old man in possession of the stolen goods and drugs of dependence. He was also found to be wanted on multiple outstanding warrants.
The man has been charged with several theft-related offences and was remanded in custody to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court. Police have since returned all stolen items to their rightful owners.
