Darwin Council alderman Gary Haslett speaks out on crime after seeing car smashed in with chain

A DARWIN Council alderman whose car was allegedly attacked by a chain-wielding woman at the weekend says the incident is the latest indication crime is on the rise in the greater Darwin area

Darwin Council alderman Gary Haslett had his car damaged by a woman wielding a piece of chain in the carpark of McDonald’s in Johnston. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford

• Woman charged after alleged chain attack on Darwin Council alderman’s car

A DARWIN Council alderman whose car was allegedly attacked by a chain-wielding woman at the weekend says the incident is the latest indication crime is on the rise in the greater Darwin area.

Gary Haslett was having lunch at McDonald’s in Johnston about 12.30pm on Saturday when an unknown woman approached his red Volkswagen parked outside and allegedly smashed the windscreen, rear screen, mirrors and bodywork with a length of chain and padlock.

The damage to the rear windscreen of Darwin Council alderman Gary Haslett's car. Picture: Gary Haslett/ Facebook

McDonald’s staff locked customers inside for their safety.

Mr Haslett said the damage would cost thousands of dollars to fix and his car was likely to be written off.

“I was in disbelief. You’re hungry so you pull in for a burger and that happens,” he said.

“Unfortunately I think things like that happen all the time. Crime is definitely increasing.”

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NT Police have arrested and charged a 27-year-old woman with criminal damage in relation to the incident.

She is due to face court at a later date.

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