Drunk Stealing – Diversion

This is a case of drunk stealing resulting in a diversion. Despite the relatively minor nature of the offending and our client’s co-operation, the police did not initially recommend diversion. Hence an application for diversion was submitted through the police informant.

What is alleged to have occured?
Our client was charged with Theft following an accusation that he stole a bottle of alcohol from the Crown Casino. At the time of the alleged offending, the client was adversely affected by alcohol and there were two others who were also charged with Theft. He admitted his involvement when questioned and was otherwise co-operative.

What happened at court?
We represented the client at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. The charges were:

The application for diversion was subsequently recommended, and then approved by the presiding Magistrate on the first listing of the case.

It must be noted that the offending was relatively minor and our client made full admissions. Our client also obtained good plea material in the form of strong character references which were tendered to the court at the diversion assessment hearing. His full co-operation and genuine remorse for his offending was underscored during submissions to the court.

What was the result?
Our client enjoyed full-time employment and a criminal record would have placed his continued employment in jeopardy. By reason of the successful diversion for the drunk stealing, our client avoided a criminal record.
 
DISCLAIMER: This is a real case study of an actual case from our files. Details pertaining to the client have been changed to protect their privacy. The sentence imposed and the charge have not been altered. These case studies are published to demonstrate real outcomes and give an indication of possible tariffs in Court. We do not guarantee a similar case on these charges will get the same result. Please note that we post results at our discretion, therefore while many case studies are average results, others are notable for their exceptional outcomes. PUBLISHED 11/01/2018