Police and Greater Shepparton City Council are investigating allegations of illegal brothel activity near a Shepparton school. Apollo 45 spokesman William Albon expressed concern that police and council were not taking action to prevent the alleged activity. The News received a number of documents from Mr Albon this week addressing alleged illegal brothel activity at a property on Wilmot Rd. Shepparton police Senior Sergeant Ross Brittain said police had been made aware of suspected illegal activity occurring in South Shepparton, but he would not disclose a specific address.
Sen Sgt Brittain said police were in the process of investigating the claims and they would speak with people who attended and left the premises to gather information. Mr Albon showed The News a text message conversation with a woman asking him to attend a residential address in Wilmot Rd this week, along with a statutory declaration stating a sexual service was provided for money at this address.
While he noted police played a role in pursuing illegal operators in town, Mr Albon said he believed local government must take enforcement action against illegal brothel activity under the integrity of the Shepparton planning scheme. Mr Albon referred to the Planning and Environment Act, namely Section where the authorised officers of the responsible authority may serve infringement notices on those breaching the planning scheme; Section where an authorised officer of the responsible authority has power of entry; and Section where if an authorised officer of the responsible authority requests police back-up then police must provide it.
Greater Shepparton City Council chief executive Peter Harriott said the council had received a query from concerned residents about the possibility of a brothel operating in Wilmot Rd.
He said council staff were working closely with police to investigate the matter and would take any appropriate action that was required. Wilmot Rd Primary School was offered the opportunity to comment on the matter, but declined to do so.
