Detectives have recovered stolen bicycles and scooters valued at $36,000 and arrested seven people – including three boys aged between 10 and 12 – following an investigation into the burglary of a business at Orange.
“Earlier this week, officers from the Central West Police District’s Orange Proactive Crime Team commenced an investigation after several bicycles and scooters were allegedly stolen from a business on Lords Place at Orange,” NSW Police said in a statement.
Police were told the store had been targeted during two separate incidents on March 6 and 7.
Following inquiries, police arrested an 18-year-old man and three boys – aged between 10 and 12.
Central West Police District Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Bruce Grassick said police would continue in their efforts to manage youth crime across the district.
“Officers attached to Central West Police District are actively engaged in prevention and disruption programs with various stakeholders in order to ensure young offenders are diverted from the criminal justice system,” Det C/Insp Grassick said.
“Police will continue to manage youth crime with an emphasis on diversion.”
The 18-year-old man was charged with aggravated break enter and steal. He was granted strict conditional bail to appear before Orange Local Court on April 19.
The three boys were dealt with under the Young Offenders Act, with one referred to NSW Youth Justice.
Following further inquiries, police arrested two boys – aged 10 and 16 – at Glenroi on Tuesday.
The pair were taken to Orange Police Station, where the 10-year-old boy was dealt with under the Young Offenders Act, and the 16-year-old boy was released pending further inquiries.
About 1pm yesterday, a 15-year-old boy was arrested at Clifton Grove and taken to Orange Police Station. He was referred to NSW Youth Justice.
In total, police located and recovered seven scooters, 10 bicycles and other property across various locations in Orange, valued in excess of at $36,000.
Police say further bicycles and scooters stolen from the business remain outstanding.
