Fake robbery staged at a Penrith petrol station

Staged robbery at Penrith petrol station

According to an article published on 10 February 2025 by Newsandstar, two men staged a fake robbery at a petrol station on Ullswater Road in Penrith. The incident, which occurred on 6 September 2021, involved James Conway and Colin Stalgis.

Newsandstar reports that CCTV footage showed Conway entering the store masked and brandishing a knife, while Stalgis, who was present as a customer, appeared unconcerned. The pair had conspired with a female shop assistant to steal cash from the till. Following a police investigation, both men were arrested and subsequently admitted to a charge of conspiracy to steal.

During the sentencing, Judge Michael Fanning acknowledged the harmful impact such crimes have on businesses and the community. However, he also noted the defendants' rehabilitation and the significant delay in bringing the case to court. Conway received an 18-month suspended prison sentence, while Stalgis received a 16-month suspended sentence.

Business owners are encouraged to maintain rigorous cash handling procedures and ensure staff are trained to recognize and report suspicious activity immediately.

Source : Newsandstar