A man who allegedly shoplifted petrol from a gas station in Brisbane has pleaded guilty to assaulting his shoplifting victim, the Queensland Police Service said.
The 32-year-old man allegedly attempted to steal more than $20,000 worth of petrol from the Banyan Gas station at Campbelltown, south of Brisbane, police said.
The man, who has not been named, appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
He was remanded in custody on bail until his sentencing on May 6.
“The victim was distressed by what had occurred and was concerned for his safety and welfare at the time,” the police statement said.
“He contacted police and advised them that he was going to leave the store for a short period to help pay for his gas.”
The gas station was closed and staff members were advised to avoid the area.
Police said the man entered the store without the victim’s permission, and asked for the victim to give him the money.
As the man stood by the victim and handed him the stolen money, the victim tried to leave, but was stopped by police and charged with assaulting police.
“The accused was adamant that he did not steal anything from the store and that he would return the money,” the statement said, adding that the man would not appear in court again.
“However, he has pleaded not guilty to the offence and is due to appear in the Brisbane Magistrate’s Court on May 18 to be sentenced.”
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