An alleged tool thief has been charged after police uncovered more than 200 stolen tools valued at approximately $100,000 during a raid on a home in Doncaster, Melbourne.
The investigation began after a tradesman reported the theft of his tools from the back of his work ute in Blackburn on 14th of June Shortly afterward, the stolen items were spotted listed for sale on an online marketplace.
On July 4, police searched the Doncaster property and discovered two locked rooms packed with stolen equipment, including drop saws, laser tools, and various handheld power tools.
The 29-year-old suspect was not present during the raid but was arrested on July 8. He now faces charges of handling stolen goods and negligently dealing with the proceeds of crime.
Victoria Police allege the suspect stole tools over a six-month period from multiple suburbs, including Blackburn, Doncaster, Box Hill, Nunawading, and Burwood.
According to police data, tool theft is on the rise across Victoria, with over 19,000 cases reported in the year leading up to March. Constable Jake Keenan said most thefts involve unlocked work vans and utes, with one incident occurring every two hours.
“Tool theft delivers a significant financial blow to tradies, often forcing them to replace expensive gear and cancel jobs,” Keenan warned.
