Police figures for the past twelve months reveal that violent assaults and drugs dealings have increased significantly in the City of Maribyrnong.

Physical assaults have surged 13.8% to 635 cases.

Physical assaults, excluding family violence, increased 7.7% to 446 offences.

Drug offences increased 7.5% to 777 incidences.

Police Inspector Tony Long said a Family Violence unit was established last July which is working through a heavy caseload. He said that physical assaults, both family violence related and otherwise, continue to be an issue of significant concern.

In Maribyrnong the police figures show that a person is more likely to be attacked in the home than on the street.

Les Twentyman, Footscray Youth Worker, said the crime rate is actually a lot higher as many incidents were not reported. Mr Twentyman said that he see many cases of assault and robbery that are not reported to police.

If you have been the victim of a physical assault, sexual abuse, armed robbery, indecent assault, domestic violence, Road Rage, aggravated burglary or other similar serious crime contact Victims of Crime Compensation & Counselling Services for free, immediate and professional assistance, advice and support on 1800 000 055 or make an enquiry now at www.victimsofcrime.com.au or email: support@victimsofcrime.com.au

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