Criminals who share their disturbing crimes on social media will face extra jail time under new legislation introduced by the state government.
The Crimes Amendment (Performance Crime) Bill, introduced into state parliament on June 16, will outlaw boasting about certain crimes on social media and messaging apps.
The new offence aims to target those who publish content bragging about their involvement in serious crimes such as affray, burglary and robbery, car theft, carjacking, home invasions and violent disorder.
This includes anyone encouraging or facilitating these crimes – so there is no room to hide behind the ringleader.
This legislation responds to a trend of young people chasing clout on Tik Tok and Snapchat by boasting about their crimes, behaviour which authorities beleive encourages copycat offending, retraumatises victims and disturbs the community.
Anyone found guilty of a specified serious offence who has also posted and boasted about it will face up to two years’ jail time on top of any other penalty imposed for the substantive offence.
“Victorians are outraged by offenders posting and boasting about their crimes – that’s why we’re taking action,” said Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny of the legislation.
“This crackdown alongside our tough new bail laws and machete ban is all about keeping Victorians safe.”
“These laws back the work of Victoria Police and send a clear message to offenders – crime isn’t content, it isn’t entertainment, and it won’t be tolerated,” added Police Minister Anthony Carbines.
