A North Queensland man has been sent to prison after committing a brazen break-in at the Ingham Police Station compound, making off with police property in an audacious overnight crime.
The Illegal Entry and Theft
Jared Michael Carrara, a 30-year-old Townsville resident, faced the Ingham Magistrates Court where details of his criminal actions were revealed. The court heard that on June 14, 2024, Carrara illegally entered the secured compound of the Ingham Police Station.
During his unauthorized access to the police facility, Carrara stole several items of police property. The stolen goods included two police shirts and a pair of police trousers from a vehicle parked within the compound. His actions were captured on surveillance footage, providing clear evidence of the offense.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
When Carrara appeared before the court, he pleaded guilty to one count of entering a premises and committing an indictable offence. The prosecution outlined how security systems at the police compound had recorded the entire incident, leaving no doubt about Carrara's involvement.
Magistrate Simon Young considered the seriousness of breaking into a police facility when delivering the sentence. Carrara was sentenced to three months imprisonment for his crime. The magistrate noted the concerning nature of targeting a police station, describing it as a significant breach of security.
Criminal History and Consequences
The court took into account Carrara's existing criminal record when determining the appropriate punishment. With 15 pages of prior convictions already on his record, the magistrate emphasized the need for a sentence that reflected both the current offense and his history of criminal behavior.
In addition to the prison term, Carrara was ordered to pay $250 in compensation for the stolen police property. The sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of targeting police facilities and the zero-tolerance approach towards such brazen criminal acts.
Police authorities have welcomed the court's decision, noting that security at police facilities remains a priority and that any breaches will be treated with the utmost seriousness by both law enforcement and the judicial system.
