Car Keying Sydney: Man Charged for Damaging Luxury Cars
A man has been charged after allegedly keying six luxury cars in shopping centre car parks in Sydney’s northwest, causing more than $10,000 in damage. The 34-year-old was arrested on Sunday night after a member of the public called the police.
According to reports, three Teslas, an Audi, Mercedes, and a Golf were all targeted in January and February this year while parked in shopping centres around Rouse Hill, Box Hill, and Schofields. Shocking footage from the security system on one of the Teslas captured the man allegedly keying the vehicles with a three-bladed metal multi-tool.
The video showed the suspect walking past the cars, dragging the tool along the side of the vehicles, before checking if anyone was watching. The man is now facing six counts of malicious damage and one count of custody of an offensive implement in a public place.
The 34-year-old spent the night in custody and is scheduled to appear in Blacktown Local Court on Monday. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
This incident follows a similar case last October, where a 70-year-old man was caught keying a Tesla in a shopping centre in Brisbane. Raymond Edwards admitted to the act but expressed remorse for his actions. He also made controversial remarks about electric vehicles, stating that he would be pleased to see a Tesla on fire at the roadside.
In regards to the Brisbane incident, Mr. Edwards was ordered to pay $2,443.61 in restitution for the damage caused to the Tesla and a BMW, while his wife was ordered to pay $897.25 for the Tesla repair work.
Car keying has become an increasingly common issue in cities around the world. The damage caused by these acts not only affects the owners but also adds financial burden and inconvenience. Authorities are working to address such cases and bring justice to those responsible. As investigations continue, it is essential for car owners to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their vehicles from such acts.
Analyst comment
Negative: A man has been charged with vandalizing luxury cars in shopping centre car parks, causing over $10,000 in damage. The market for luxury car owners may experience a temporary decrease in confidence as concerns about vehicle safety and security arise. Car park security may be reinforced to avoid such incidents in the future.
