Social media is continuing to experience a rising trend in the number of users reporting crimes and suspicious behaviour.

Across the Clarence Valley, residents are regularly posting CCTV footage and photos taken by private security cameras which predominantly feature alleged attempted break-ins (vehicles and properties) and antisocial behaviour online to notify and warn neighbours in surrounding areas.

The posts often include additional information regarding the location, time, and a description of the incident/s and alleged person/s involved.

Last year, Seargent Nick Wiles from the Coffs/Clarence Police District strongly emphasised the importance of reporting crimes and suspicious activity directly to Grafton Police and urged Clarence Valley residents to come forward with any relevant information as soon as possible to enable police to commence investigations.

At the time (May 2023), Sgt Wiles also identified incorrect information and inaccurate reports being shared via social media as the key components behind misleading claims surrounding crime statistics in the region.

Last week, a South Grafton resident who wished to remain anonymous told the Clarence Valley Independent they no longer feel safe at their residence of close to 30 years, and strongly believe the whole area is experiencing “a significant crime spike.”

“I don’t sleep very well anymore,” they explained.

“Every time I hear a noise, I feel compelled to go and see what caused it, and I check that my windows and doors are secure between four and six times each night.

“Almost every week, there is some sort of disturbance in my neighbourhood, from people attempting to break into cars or houses, speeding in the streets and doing burnouts, and groups of youths wandering around without adult supervision.

“I am constantly stressed, because I never know when my house or car might be targeted.”

Secretary of the South Grafton Progress Association Robert Cook has seen the reports of alleged crimes and antisocial behaviour on social media and is convinced the activity is escalating and becoming more aggressive.

The prominent local business owner has also been the victim of multiple break-ins through the years and said while he believes police are doing the best they can, the judicial system is where the problem lies.

“When police press charges, the perpetrators are often sentenced to community service, subsequently, they’re out on the streets again,” he explained.

“How is that a deterrent for their actions?”

“The judicial system has got to be responsible.

“It’s failing, and that is where we’ve got a problem.”

The Clarence Valley Independent also contacted Grafton Police for comment.

Their response will be published in an upcoming edition of our publication. 

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 14 February 2024.