Police arrest Tyson White, 22, for string of Frankston retirement villages burglaries

A GUTLESS burglar who preyed on elderly people in aged care has been caught and remanded.

A GUTLESS burglar who allegedly preyed on elderly people in aged care has been caught and remanded.

Jewellery, credit cards and personal belongings were stolen during a string of aggravated burglaries at retirement villages in Frankston since the beginning in April.

One resident was in hospital when the thief allegedly ransacked their room, up-ending cupboards and drawers during a frenzied rampage.

Tyson White, 22, faced Frankston Magistrates’ Court on Friday charged with aggravated burglary, deception, burglary, handling stolen goods, car theft and dealing in proceeds of crime.

Police allege Mr White went on a month-long crime spree beginning on April 7 and culminating with his arrest in Frankston on May 18 in a stolen car with stolen numberplates.

Frankston crime investigation unit detective Senior Constable Ryan Collins said he targeted residents at the Village Baxter on Robinsons Rd, Frankston South and Long Island Retirement Village in Overton Rd, Seaford.

He said fortunately none of the residents, aged between 70 and 90, were disturbed during the break ins.

So far police have been unable to recover the stolen goods.

Stuart Shaw, General Manager of the Village Baxter, which was targeted twice during the spree, said staff and residents were pleased police had apprehended a suspect.

He said it was the first burglary at Baxter Village in a long time and thanked police for their support and proactive approach.

He said they encourage residents, staff and the wider community to be vigilant and not make themselves a soft target by locking doors and clearing bushes away from window.

“Ultimately, if people see something suspicious, we urge them to contact police straight way,” Mr Shaw said.

Mr White was remanded and will next face court again next month.