Roma boy sentenced for violent home invasion, burglary and theft

On the eve of his 18th birthday, a young boy has faced the music for his role in the terrifying home invasion of a 24-year-old student.

Picture: File

A young Roma man on the cusp of adulthood has faced court after terrifying a young medical student and wreaking havoc through town.

A 17-year-old Roma boy appeared before the Childrens Court of Queensland on Friday, December 6, pleading guilty to a string of offences including armed robbery in company, dangerous operation of a vehicle and aggravated attempted burglary.

The boy was only one day away from becoming an adult at his sentencing.

Crown prosecutor Nicole Friedewald told the court the offending took place over one night on August 9, 2024, starting with a bang at the door of a 24-year-old medical student.

“She expected it to be one of her housemates and opened the door; at that time she saw three males with faces partially obscured, armed with baseball bats,” Ms Friedewald said.

“She thought they were going to strike her with those bats and she was ultimately pushed to the ground.”

The group, including the Roma boy, then ransacked her home, escaping with her car, wallet and card holder.

Ms Friedewald claimed the group then drove the stolen vehicle through town, causing havoc and “taunting” police.

“At various times it was observed to be revving its engine, performing sharp turns and dangerous manoeuvres,” she said.

Further into the night, the three offenders attempted to break into multiple businesses and homes across Roma.

“The offending continued and perhaps became more focused on residential properties, rather than business premises,” Ms Friedewald said.

The group also used stolen bank cards in transactions totalling $175 and stole $75 worth of fuel.

Barrister Rachel Hews instructed by Legal Aid Queensland said, since his offending, the boy had time to reflect on his actions.

“He is very remorseful for his role in the offending,” she argued.

“He consistently asked if there was anything he could do to compensate the victims or the damage his offences have caused.”

Ms Hews advised the court a report by Youth Justice claimed the boy was prone to peer pressure.

“The report writer gives the opinion that he has been highly influenced by the negative peer associations around him and he lacked the ability to process the consequences of his actions.

“He accepts that is not an excuse and, now that he will be an adult as of tomorrow, he needs to take responsibility for his actions.

She added the boy had suffered significant bullying and taunting in detention, causing severe emotional distress.

Judge Nicole Kefford ruled against detention, taking into account the boys’ acknowledgment of wrongdoing and struggles in custody.

“The community will be better protected if you can be rehabilitated and learn those necessary skills and learn coping mechanisms to deal with your mental health difficulties,” she said.

The boy was formally charged with armed robbery in company, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle, fraud, stealing, attempted enter premises, attempted burglary in company at night, and wilful damage.

He was sentenced to 18 months’ probation with no convictions recorded.