Chewing gum automatic machine targeted: man arrested!

Chewing gum automatic machine targeted: man arrested!

In the early morning of June 19, 2025, remarkable incidents occurred in the 10th district of Vienna favorites. A 33-year-old Slovak was observed how he tried to break up a chewing gum machine with a screwdriver. The alleged perpetrator acted on the open street around 4.30 a.m., which attracted the attention of a prudent witness. This did not hesitate long and immediately informed the police. As reported 5min.at, the emergency services were able to arrest the manner suspect on an act.

The tool carried was secured as a tool and the suspect subsequently took into custody by the police officers. In the later interrogation, however, the man was not confessed, which did not make the investigation easier. In view of the severity of the attempted theft, the Vienna public prosecutor's office decided to put it in a judiciary, as [today] (https://www.heute.at/s/auf-kaugummijagd-mann-wollte- automat-stauf-120114976) noted.

The background

The incident throws a light on the problem of smaller offenses in urban areas. The police crime statistics (PKS), which documents criminal events in Austria, shows that there can also be an increase in the area of ​​small offenses such as theft of chewing gum machines. Since 2001, these cases have been electronically registered and not only serve the police for statistic position, but also as the basis for strategic measures in the fight against crime. According to the Federal Criminal Police Office, the PKS is an important instrument in preventive and repressive fight against crime, even if the dark field of crimes is not covered. This information is based on the Federal Criminal Police Office and show the relevance of advertising statistics for public security measures.

Incidents like this at the chewing gum machine can indeed be considered indicators of social problems. The display of such acts also depends heavily on the display behavior of the population. While some are desperately looking for small opportunities to make "quick money", others fight for security and cleanliness in their living environment.

It remains to be seen which further findings will result in the investigation into the case of the chewing gum machine and to what extent this act will flow into the major crime statistics of the city. One thing is certain: chewing gum is still popular - and some seem to want to benefit illegally.