Tasmania Police Detectives have arrested and charged a 42 year old Police Point man with a series of burglaries in the Huon Valley. The man was targeting properties that had been evacuated by residents seeking alternate places of safety during the Huon Valley fires.

The man was originally arrested on Monday however during investigation of additional reports further crimes have been identified. The man has been charged tonight with 29 additional crimes/offences including: Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Burglary(x4), Burglary(x5), Stealing(x6) and Trespass(x13).

“It is utterly unacceptable for this offender to target evacuated properties. Police have acted quickly to hold this offender to account.” said Detective Acting Inspector Jim Semmens.

“Fortunately this is the only reported series of crimes targeting evacuated properties with the majority of stolen property recovered and returned to the owners.”

“I want to reassure the public that Tasmania Police will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and will turn our resources to investigate these matters as a priority.”

“I would like to thank members of the public who have provided information that led to quick resolution of the investigation.”

The man has been detained in custody to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court tomorrow morning.