Three teens charged after 75-year-old man allegedly assaulted in violent home invasion

Three teenagers, including a 13-year-old, have been charged with allegedly assaulting, robbing and threatening to kill an elderly man in his own home.

Victoria Police said the three males allegedly broke into the Pound Road property in Hampton Park about 3.30am on Thursday, beating the man and stealing his car.

The man suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene, while a 69-year-old woman at the home was not physically injured.

About 30 minutes after the alleged attack, police located the man’s car near Arena Parade in Officer. Police officers arrested a 13-year-old, 15-year-old and a 16-year-old, all from Casey. Two long kitchen knives were allegedly found in the car.

The trio have been charged with eight offences, including aggravated home invasion, threatening to kill, false imprisonment, theft of a motor vehicle, assault with a weapon and criminal damage.

Victoria Police Inspector Dale Maxwell said the alleged offending was probably opportunistic and the serious nature was concerning.

“The victims are obviously traumatised,” said Maxwell.

“They’ve done the right thing in not fighting back and allowing police to do their job.”

The three teenagers will face the Children’s Court on Friday.

Victoria Police’s burglary and car theft-focused Operation Trinity runs from dusk to dawn each evening across Melbourne, and is supported by a range of other units including the air wing, dog squad and the public order response team.

The operation has led to the arrest of 627 burglars and car thieves so far, a combined 1550 times in the last year – more than four arrests each day.

“These offenders are largely opportunistic by nature – seeking easy access points through unlocked doors and windows,” police said.

“As such, police implore the community to take simple steps such as locking all doors and windows on your home and car.”

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