General News
3 June, 2024
Local IGA dealt thousands in damage
In the past eight days, Maryborough’s IGA store has been impacted by two break-ins — with both offences committed by a teenager, who has since been identified by police. Early morning on May 26 and June 2, the offender smashed the sliding doors...
In the past eight days, Maryborough’s IGA store has been impacted by two break-ins — with both offences committed by a teenager, who has since been identified by police.
Early morning on May 26 and June 2, the offender smashed the sliding doors at the shop’s front entrance to access the store.
Once inside, they reportedly stole about $20 worth of alcoholic goods each time.
Police have confirmed that they have identified but not processed the offender who has no prior convictions.
Investigations around the circumstances of the thefts are ongoing and will help police determine how the offender will be processed — either by caution, by diversion or by charging them.
According to IGA Maryborough store manager Jefferson Hoober, although the cost of items stolen were relatively low, the shop will have to foot a large bill to fix the damaged doors.
“They came in to take $40 worth of stuff but it’s going to cost us a couple of grand to fix the shattered glass,” he said.
“Police know who the person is but the end result is that we’re left picking up the pieces.”
Although disappointed with the act, Mr Hoober also sympathised with the offender.
“It’s very sad that this person is in that state of mind — we just want to support them and help them get on the right path before they end up behind the big door,” he said.
“This person’s very young and they need to know that there’s more to life than [crime].”
The IGA break-in is the third of its kind in the last fortnight according to police, who confirmed that different youth offenders also targeted a local pharmacy and a gift shop.
Those incidents are also being investigated by police.