Police warn carpark tailgaters

Acting Sergeant Jason Grant said the penalties such offenders faced were severe. "Those who intentionally deface private property can face a court record," he said.

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"Too many people are intentionally choosing to steal by tailgating as they exit car parks," he said. "In some cases, they're willing to go so far as to damage boom gates to exit without paying," Sgt Grant said.

"It could cost up to $11,000 to repair the damage, and offenders may have to pay the organisation owning the property," he said. "In the scheme of things, a car park fee is not much compared to the possible penalties you could face," Sgt Grant said.

Police have warned drivers to be vigilant about where they park and also about leaving any valuables on show inside their vehicles.

Police figures show there were almost 2000 reports of criminal damage in car parks last year. And there were almost 480 reports of theft of vehicles - up from about 390 over the previous 12 months.

"The message is simple: lock up, remove your valuables, park in well-lit areas or areas with security cameras, and call 000 as soon as possible to report suspicious behaviour," Sgt Grant said.

"People get caught out leaving valuables in plain sight, which tempts opportunistic thieves to take what they can find," he said.