A Liberal MP from Western Australia, Merome Beard, had her vehicle reportedly stolen and subsequently used in a ram raid at a local bottle shop, coinciding with the opening of early voting for the state election. The incident occurred around 11:30pm on Sunday in Carnarvon, located approximately 900km north of Perth. Beard was in the process of placing campaign signs in the car when she was confronted by three individuals.
After stepping out of her vehicle, Beard watched as it was driven away, leaving her without any means of communication or personal belongings, including her mobile phone. Feeling vulnerable, she sought assistance from a nearby motel, where she was able to contact both the police and her husband for help. This caused her considerable stress, particularly as the election was set to commence the following morning.
Later that same night, police reported that her car had been used to break through secure doors of the bottle shop, resulting in significant damage and the theft of various items from the premises. The vehicle, a Toyota Landcruiser, was found abandoned in nearby bushland, while the suspects had reportedly fled the scene.
Subsequently, authorities apprehended three boys aged 12, 15, and 16, charging them with multiple offences including vehicle theft. The youngest was granted bail and is scheduled to appear in the Carnarvon Children’s Court on March 11, while the other two are set to face court later today.
Beard emphasised that this incident underscores a pressing issue of youth crime that she wishes to address if re-elected. Early voting for the state election commenced yesterday, with Election Day scheduled for Saturday, March 8.