Child crime Qld: Angry victim seeks answers over repeat offenders still getting bail

Angry victims of teenage criminals are demanding answers, as repeat offenders continue to be granted bail, allowing them to reoffend and create new victims.

Marcelo Alcantara from Helensvale had his car stolen and then saw it being boasted about online. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Gold Coast man Marcelo Alcantara and his family were sound asleep when young offenders broke in and stole $140,000 in possessions, including two vehicles.

Mr Alcantara said they were only woken when the thieves drove through their garage door during the February 2024 incident.

He said he felt “disgusted” when he stumbled upon footage of the offenders bragging about his stolen vehicles on social media and now lives in fear because the offenders and their associates know where he lives.

“I could suffer retaliation from the criminals if they get bail. We have zero access,” he said.

“They can come with machetes and we cannot have a can of pepper spray. If I spray it in (their) face I would go to jail and they would get bail.”

Mr Alcantara said the carefree way alleged offenders posted on social media emboldened them and reduced their fear of persecution.

“They get bail endless times and they don’t care,” he said.

“It makes me very sad living in this wonderful country.

“They don’t respect the law because the law is too soft with them. It’s a consequence of watering down of the laws.

“It’s a pattern. Bail, do it again, and we don’t understand why judges give bail to people to make another victim.”

He also revealed his insurance had doubled since the incident, increasing by more than $3000 per year.

“One morning in my house was $140k in losses. For a little quick fun. Our insurance has gone through the roof,” he said.

“My message to these people is if you don’t want to be punished by law, don’t commit the crime.”

Originally published as Child crime Qld: Angry victim seeks answers over repeat offenders still getting bail