Charges following Aggravated Burglary in West Moonah

At about 3.40am on Sunday 23rd April 2023 police were called to attend to an aggravated burglary that occurred in Amy Street, West Moonah.

As a result of prompt police attendance at the scene, a 14-year-old female was located on the property and was arrested by police.

A 21 year old male was located nearby a short time later and was also arrested. Subsequent investigations determined that a third offender had fled the scene as police arrived and a 33-year-old male was later located and subsequently charged with aggravated burglary and stealing.

The attending officers also located a home-made firearm that had been in the possession of the 14 year old female. She has been interviewed and detained to appear in court on Monday 24 April 2023. She has been charged with aggravated burglary, stealing and firearm offences.

A quantity of jewellery was removed from the property and police are still making efforts to locate the property. The jewellery items are unique and include:

1 x 18 carat gold ring with a snake head on it.

2 x gold banded Ferrari watches

2 x gold wedding bands

Glenorchy CIB are maintaining carriage of the investigation.

Detective Inspector Morrisby of Glenorchy CIB stated:

“We are concerned to be dealing with an incident that involves a 14 year old and a firearm. A decision to place a 14 year old in custody to appear before court is not made lightly and is reflective of a number of factors, including the seriousness of the crimes committed, the involvement of a firearm and public safety.”

Detective Inspector Morrisby indicated one of the offenders had injured themselves whilst fleeing from the crime scene, stating:

“The 33 year old male that fled the scene as police arrived caused themselves a significant injury whilst running from the property, which later required them to make contact with Ambulance Tasmania. Consequently, police have charged and bailed that male from custody for a later court date and he remains in a stable condition in the Royal Hobart Hospital undergoing treatment to his injury.”

Anyone with information relating to this matter or who may see jewellery that matches the descriptions provided for sale can provide it to police via 131 444 or anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au