Ben Thomas Johnson charged with Gold Coast smash-and-grab spree

An 18-year-old allegedly involved in a string of brazen break-ins across the Gold Coast has fronted court for the first time. DETAILS

A young man allegedly involved in a series of smash-and-grab thefts across the northern Gold Coast has faced court for the first time.

Ben Thomas Johnson was dressed in all black for his brief appearance in Southport Magistrates Court on Monday morning.

Ben Johnson leaving the Southport courthouse. Picture: Jessica Paul

He faces 27 charges including enter premises and commit indictable offence, enter premises, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and fraud (dishonestly make off without paying).

It is alleged the 18-year-old was one of several people working together to target businesses across the Gold Coast – including service stations, car yards, and auto parts stores – last month.

Police allege stolen vehicles and other implements were used to force entry on several occasions.

Mr Johnson was represented by duty lawyer Shelby Thompson, of Brooke Winter Solicitors, who requested a lengthy adjournment having taken a legal aid application from her client.

He remains on bail with his case to return to court on February 12.