Removalist’s ‘sophisticated’ stealing ploy set up to rip off homeowners
He was the removalist trusted by Brisbane families to take care of their possessions but instead he had a cunning ploy to steal what he could right from under their noses. Now he’s planning to work for another removal company.
Moreton
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A removalist who developed a “sophisticated” system of knocking off and on-selling his client’s possessions plans to start work at another removal company when he’s finally let out of jail a court has heard.
Timothy James Bell, 30, appeared via video link from jail at Caboolture Magistrates Court, pleading guilty to a litany of fraud and stealing charges.
Bell was silent as his history of dishonesty was laid bare, which included a previous spate of armed robbery, stealing and fraud offences — for which he was given a head sentence of four years’ jail in Brisbane District Court in June.
Magistrate James Blanch heard that while at work Bell would swipe trusting homeowners’ possessions then either sell or trade them online or pawn them.
“The behaviour that is before me is persistent dishonesty,” Magistrate Blanch said.
“Taking advantage of the job that you were in … you took advantage of your position as a removalist and you preyed on these poor victims.
“It became quite sophisticated in the end when you were able to advertise (stolen goods for sale online).
“You have no regard for anyone else’s property and it is because of that I would have believed you would have received further custody had (these charges) been dealt with (when you were in the district court).
“I don’t want you in the community.
“(I note your psychological report) but that doesn’t give you the right to take advantage of other people.”
Magistrate Blanch warned Bell off resuming work as a removalist once he was eligible for parole.
“May I simply suggest to you that you don’t do that, you can’t help yourself, keep your hands off other people’s property,” he said.
Bell was sentenced to 10 months jail for more than 10 stealing, receiving tainted property and fraud charges. He will be eligible for parole on September 20.
Magistrate Blanch said the sentences were a deterrence to both Bell and “other idiots who want to take other people’s property”.
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