Top real estate agent arrested in theft scandal

A prominent real estate agent has been arrested over the alleged theft of rivals agencies’ open for inspection boards in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

M J Docking real estate director Adam Docking has been arrested over the theft of competitors’ ‘open for inspection’ signs. Picture: Tony Gough

A prestigious real estate agent currently selling a property on world-famous Ramsay Street has allegedly been caught up in a bizarre theft scandal.

Adam Docking, director of M J Docking & Associates, was arrested at his Vermont South home on Tuesday in connection to the theft of real estate open boards.

The Herald Sun has been told they belonged to competitor agencies.

Mr Docking resigned from his position as president of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria on Wednesday as news of the scandal broke.

He has worked in the industry for more than 30 years and is the current listed agent for a $1.3m Vermont South home made famous by the Neighbours TV series.

There are allegations the A-frame sale boards were stolen as part of an advertising dispute involving competing agencies in the wealthy eastern suburbs pocket.

Real estate firms are required to abide by local laws such as obtaining permits to display advertising boards.

Adam Docking was arrested at his Vermont South home on April 19.

Mr Docking declined to comment when contacted by the Herald Sun.

Victoria Police confirmed his arrest, saying the matter remained under investigation.

“A search warrant was executed as part of a theft investigation at a property in Cantala Court, Vermont South on Tuesday, 19 April about 7.15am,” a Victoria Police spokeswoman said.

“Police located several small A-frame signs at the property.

“A 51-year-old Vermont South man was arrested at the scene without incident.

“He was interviewed and released pending further inquiries.

“The investigation is ongoing.”

M J Docking & Associates, a Vermont-based residential, commercial and property management firm, was founded by Mr Docking’s father 40 years ago.

Mr Docking was elected the 2021-22 president of REIV after three successful terms as senior vice president and vice president.

A key part of his role is upholding the ethics of the real estate industry.

Members of competing agencies form part of the REIV board.

The Docking Real Estate website states: “Adam believes that strong ethics, sound advice, effective marketing and a passion for real estate are key to achieving great results for his clients”.

A REIV spokeswoman said the organisation was made aware of the investigation into Mr Docking on Wednesday.

“Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) President Adam Docking alerted the organisation yesterday of his involvement in a Victoria Police investigation concerning residential sale advertising boards,” the spokeswoman said.

“Given the issue is subject to an ongoing police investigation, REIV is unable to make any further comments.”

A new president will be appointed in the coming days.