Teen charged over armed hold-up

By Chad Vanestrop
A THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD male will be charged on summons relating to an armed hold up early last week.
Police understand the youth, carrying a fake gun, entered the Pakenham Place Tobacconist as part of a prank.
“People need to understand the consequences of their conduct and how other people might react,” Cardinia CIU Detective Sergeant Phillip Jury said.
Police have interviewed the Pakenham youth who is expected to be charged with possession of an imitation pistol, wearing articles of disguise and assault with a weapon.
Entering the store wearing a mask the youth discharged his weapon – believed to be a cap gun – before colliding with a customer while attempting to flee.
Store owner Sam Hang said the youth in question is part of a group who have terrorised shops in Pakenham Place in recent months.
“(These) kids think it’s a game, but it’s criminal,” Mr Hang said.