On Monday, 12 January 2026, Victorian police arrested and charged a 54-year-old man in connection with a series of burglaries and property-related crimes across Melbourne suburbs including Carlton, Kensington, Fitzroy North, and Princess Hill. The arrest followed weeks of active investigation after multiple incidents ranging from aggravated burglary and theft to obtaining property by deception and criminal damage.

In total, the man faces more than 50 charges, many of which occurred while he was allegedly on bail. The incidents include:

  • An aggravated burglary on 24 November 2025 in Kensington
  • A burglary in Kensington on 7 December 2025
  • Several burglaries, thefts, and attempted thefts in Fitzroy North and Princess Hill on 28 December 2025   
  • A burglary at an office in Drummond Street, Carlton on 4 January 2026
  • More than 30 charges relating to obtaining property by deception from 24-27 December 2025

He was also processed for three outstanding warrants for failing to attend on bail and has been remanded in custody to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 9 February 2026.

 

When Crime Hits Close to Home

While this arrest brings relief, it also serves as an important reminder that crime doesn’t always happen “far away” or to “other people.” It happens in familiar streets, workplaces, and neighborhoods we trust. The fact that many of these incidents occurred over a short period of time shows how unpredictable crime can be.

Burglary is not just about stolen property. It affects how safe people feel in their own homes, offices, and communities. For residents, business owners, and workers in affected areas, the aftermath often includes anxiety, disrupted routines, and lingering fear, especially when incidents happen repeatedly over days or weeks.

 

Why Personal Safety Tools Matter

In situations like these, awareness and preparedness matter just as much as police response. While we cannot control when crime happens, we can control how supported we are if something feels wrong.

This is where personal safety tools like Leelou make a real difference.

Leelou is designed to quietly support you in moments of uncertainty, whether you are walking home, opening a shop early in the morning, working late, or moving through areas that have seen recent incidents. With features like live location sharing, trusted Guardians, and real-time support, Leelou helps ensure that you are never truly alone when you need reassurance the most.

It is not about living in fear, it is about having peace of mind.

 

Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

Community safety does not rely on one solution alone. Police work, community awareness, and personal preparedness all play a role. Tools like Leelou complement existing safety efforts by empowering individuals to take proactive steps without disrupting their daily lives.

Safety should not depend on luck or timing.

 

Take Control of Your Safety Today

News like this reminds us that preparedness matters. Whether you are commuting, working late, or simply living your everyday life, having a trusted safety companion can make all the difference.

👉 Download Leelou now and take a confident step toward safer, more supported journeys anytime, anywhere.

Your safety is not optional. It is essential.