In a bizarre yet surprisingly effective scheme, a 54-year-old Wollongong man stole hundreds of dollars worth of groceries using a Caramello Koala barcode. His technique involved wrapping the barcode around his finger and scanning it in place of more expensive items, such as ice cream and steak.
The man has since admitted that he knew what he was doing was wrong but claimed his actions were driven by financial desperation, mainly his mother’s expensive medical bills. However, the ‘Sticky Finger’ barcode trick didn’t last long, as CCTV footage caught him in the act, leading to being charged with five counts of dishonestly obtaining property by deception.
The case sheds light on a growing issue across Australia. As the cost-of-living crisis worsens, incidents of shoplifting have become more common. A recent survey from Finder revealed that one in seven Australians admitted to shoplifting in the past 12 months, with many people struggling to afford basic necessities. The financial pressure has driven many to make choices they wouldn’t typically consider, as the man himself admitted: “We were very short of money … I know I did wrong.”
Shoplifting, while it may seem like a quick solution to financial problems, carries grave legal consequences. Under section 117 of the Crimes Act, those caught shoplifting goods valued under $5,000 can face penalties including a fine of up to $5,500 or up to 12 months in prison. In this case, despite his ingenious scheme, he was sentenced to nine months in prison, to be served under an intensive corrections order at home.
As financial stress continues to mount for many Australians, it’s crucial to remember that resorting to theft only creates further complications. If you’re facing charges related to shoplifting or any criminal offence, seek legal advice from Jameson Law. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and find a path forward. Contact us today for expert legal assistance.
