Posted on 08/30/2005 5:40:35 AM PDT by Cowman
TV crime fan jailed for robbery Elissa Hunt 30aug05
AN overseas student who robbed a convenience store may have been influenced by TV crime shows, a court heard yesterday.
Dalvindar Singh, 29, had no criminal convictions before holding up a city shop with a drill bit in February. Singh, who came to Australia from Singapore to study in 2001, pleaded guilty to armed robbery, criminal damage and possessing a drug of dependence.
Singh wrapped himself in a black plastic bag and brandished a 15cm drill bit, menacing two employees at the City Convenience Store in La Trobe St.
He told the pair he had a gun and would "blow them away" if they did not comply.
Singh kicked both as they lay on the floor and stole $320 before smashing a security video monitor.
He was arrested after trying to hail a taxi, whose driver became suspicious and called over a passing police car.
The father of two immediately admitted he'd done the robbery and was ashamed of his actions.
County Court judge Ross Howie said Singh's behaviour was bizarre and out of character.
Judge Howie said contributing factors included excessive drinking and drug use to counter his loneliness away from his wife and children in Singapore, and Singh's interest in crime shows.
"Your fascination with television programs focusing on criminal conduct may have played a role," he said.
The judge jailed Singh for three years and set a minimum of a year, saying he had a previous good character, had shown remorse and had good chances of rehabilitation.
PHEW! For a second there, I thought it was actually her fault.
Whaddya think he will do in the rec room?
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