Boys aged 14, 16, and 17 charged with multiple break, enter and steal offences in Goonellabah, Lismore

Three teen boys police allege are responsible for a string of break-ins and thefts have been arrested and charged. Here’s the details.

Three teens police allege are responsible for a string of break-ins and thefts have been charged. Picture: Gaye Gerard

Three teen boys police allege are responsible for a string of break-ins and thefts have been arrested and charged.

Richmond Police District and Operation Soteria officers began inquiries after several homes in Goonellabah were broken into early Tuesday morning, July 22.

Items allegedly stolen included cash and a Toyota Corolla.

Police located the vehicle in Casino after an alleged pursuit in Goonellabah.

Three boys, aged 14, 16, and 17, were arrested nearby shortly after where they were taken to Casino Police Station and charged.

Three teens have been charged with multiple property offences at Casino Police Station. Picture: File.

The 14-year-old faces seven charges, including three counts of break and enter dwelling in company to steal, and entering building/land with intent to commit an indictable offence.

He was also charged with face blackened/disguised with intent to commit an indictable offence, being carried in a conveyance taken without the owner’s consent, and breach of bail.

Boys aged 14, 16, and 17 have been charged over alleged break and enter and steal offences in Goonellabah. Picture: file.

The 16-year-old faces 18 charges, including two counts of break and enter house to steal value over $60,000, two counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling in company intending to steal less than $60,000, and five counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling in company to steal less than $60,000.

He was further charged with three counts of entering building/land with intent to commit an indictable offence, taking a person in company with intent to commit a serious indictable offence, face blackened/disguised with intent to commit an indictable offence, and possession of housebreaking implements.

Additional charges include police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly, never licensed person driving a vehicle on the road, and use of an offensive weapon in company to prevent detention.

Both boys were refused bail and appeared before a children’s court on Wednesday.

The 17-year-old was charged with three offences allegedly committed near Coffs Harbour in 2024.

He is facing aggravated break and enter and commit a serious indictable offence, entering building/land with intent to commit an indictable offence, and taking and driving a conveyance without the owner’s consent.

The 17 year-old was granted conditional bail to appear before a children’s court on Tuesday August 26.