Security guard Robert John Cox sacked after Bay Plaza Yeppoon theft

A security guard and former school groundskeeper has had a bizarre fall from grace, losing his job over a “silly decision” to steal items worth just a few dollars while on duty.

Robert John Cox faced Yeppoon Magistrates Court on March 7.

Robert John Cox was working as a security guard at the Bay Plaza Yeppoon shopping centre when he stole a packet of Panadol and Mentos mints from the TSG store.

The $8.89 theft while on duty on January 20 proved costly because after Cox was charged by police, he lost his job.

The 57-year-old pleaded guilty in Yeppoon Magistrates Court on March 7 to stealing.

The court heard that he had no criminal history.

Robert John Cox.

Solicitor Rebecca Harris said Cox, prior to his court appearance, had given $10 to the store for the items he stole, along with an apology letter.

Ms Harris said Cox was a married father of two adult children who was currently unemployed.

“He did suffer the consequence of losing his job as a result of this offending,” Ms Harris said.

“But previously he worked for 17 years as a school groundskeeper.

“He instructs it was a silly decision (to steal), he wasn’t thinking, he had a headache at the time.”

Acting Magistrate Stephen Byrne placed Cox on a four-month good behaviour order with a $250 recognisance.

No conviction was recorded.