Police and Crime Stoppers have lauded the initiative an overwhelming success, with 16 of the 23 offenders arrested. Only seven remain at large.

The Courier released images of names of offenders wanted by Victoria Police for high volume crimes including aggravated burglary, break and enters and car theft over a four week period as police continue to hone in on serial offenders. 

Superintendent Andrew Allen last week said police were gradually making inroads with volume crime – with significant reductions in crimes against the person. 

“Identified recidivists and tasking of them has been one of the local success stories. This strategy has seen the reduction of a number of crime categories in the year to date data,” he said.

During week one, three of the six offenders named were arrested within 24 hours, while the remaining three were in custody by Sunday evening. This success continued throughout the four week campaign, with many offenders either handing themselves in to or located by police within hours of being publicly named. Superintendent  Allen said community support was vital in tracking down these serial offenders who repeatedly evaded police. 

“The support from the community has been unprecedented,” he said. 

“This campaign has demonstrated that together we can create a safer and more secure community in one of Victoria’s fastest growing regional areas.

“It has also sent out a powerful message to those committing crimes in our community – we will find you and you will be put before the courts to answer the allegations.” 

Crime Stoppers chief executive Sam Hunter said the success of the campaign demonstrated the role community could play in crime prevention. 

“Again, three of last week’s six offenders named were picked up within 24 hours,” Ms Hunter said.

“The people named as part of this campaign were wanted by police on arrest warrants for crimes committed against property within the Ballarat and surrounding area, such as aggravated burglaries, burglaries, theft and handling stolen goods.

“This campaign has truly demonstrated the power of a strong community.”