A Launceston cafe owner has been forced to hire full-time security at a cost of $1000 per day after allegedly being assaulted by a group of youths demanding vaping products from customers.
Coffee Republic Owner Robin Smith said the ‘vile attack’ has left both his staff and customers shaken.
“They started to smash cafe furniture and then I intervened to protect the customer and the furniture and I was assaulted with one punch to the eye,” Smith told WIN News.
Smith said shards of glass from his contact lenses were pushed into his eye as a result of the punch.
“That’s quite a painful cut, hence [the large bandage].”
Both Smith and the customer were taken to the Launceston General Hospital after the attack, while one youth was arrested at the scene.
He was later charged with two counts of common assault.
“I will not stand by and watch customers be beaten down and clubbed and taken to hospital without intervening. I have a duty to protect my staff that were involved,” Smith said.
Smith alleges his business has been targeted for about a year, resulting the loss of staff and forcing him to employ full-time security to keep employees safe.
“You’re talking $1,000 a day for security … when they damage furniture, it’s $1,000 a time for broken tables and chairs.”
Tasmania Police say they are aware of the ongoing issues with youth crime and are conducting regular foot patrols in the area.
