A teenager who punched security guards during a brazen meat theft at a Hobart supermarket has avoided a criminal conviction, with a judge praising him for turning his life around since the violent incident.
The 18-year-old, who cannot be named, was sentenced in the Supreme Court this month after pleading guilty to aggravated robbery over the May 20, 2023 incident at Woolworths Howrah.
The court heard how the then-16-year-old and two 15-year-old accomplices stuffed their backpacks and jackets with approximately eight trays of meat before being confronted by loss prevention officers near the exit.
What followed was a violent altercation that left one security guard so traumatised he considered leaving Hobart altogether.
The teenager threw punches at one officer’s face and body while his accomplices joined the attack, with one pulling out a knife and waving it at the guards.
“He described being unable to sleep the night after the incident because he felt anxious and stressed about what had happened,” Justice Kate Cuthbertson said, referring to a victim impact statement from one of the security officers.
The interstate officer said he no longer wanted to stay in the city because he felt “anxious and scared” the trio might return.
The teenager has an extensive criminal history, including multiple stealing charges, trespass and common assault. He was already serving a probation order when the Woolworths robbery occurred.
However, the court heard evidence of his transformation since the offence.
The young man has secured full-time employment as a fencer, completed a construction certificate at TAFE and reduced his daily cannabis use.
Justice Cuthbertson sentenced him under the Youth Justice Act to a 12-month release and adjournment order, requiring him to remain of good behaviour and pay compensation to Woolworths.
No conviction was recorded to protect his employment prospects.
“It is very pleasing to see that you have turned your life around,” Justice Cuthbertson said.
“Your continued rehabilitation through work and pursuing pro-social activities is to be encouraged.”
