By Danielle Kutchel
Another tool is being added to the local crime-fighting arsenal, with victims of crime in Casey being provided with personal alarms to help them regain their confidence.
The initiative is a joint one between local police and Casey Neighbourhood Watch, which sells the alarms to the public.
In this case however, the alarms are being donated to victims of crime who are getting back out into the world after their ordeal.
Leading Senior Constable Frank Bailey of the Casey Cardinia Proactive Unit said the small, handheld alarms are seen as a good way of helping to protect people, as they quickly draw attention from the public with a squealing noise when activated.
“It was the best idea for the victims themselves, as part of reassurance and trying to build up their confidence again,” Mr Bailey said.
The alarms have a keyring to enable them to be strapped to a handbag or belt loop, as well as a small torch.
Neighbourhood Watch Casey’s acting president, Peter Cueto, explained that the alarms are being donated to local police to be given at their discretion to people who have been victims of street robberies.
“Our intent is to give the victims some measure of personal safety as they would be feeling vulnerable after an attack,” he said.
“We will continue to partner with Victoria Police to raise awareness of street robberies in the lead-up to the holiday season.”
