A teenager has been charged following an alleged armed home invasion that targeted a grandmother undergoing chemotherapy in Ipswich’s Springfield Lakes.
Police allege two teenagers forced entry into a home on Jupiter Street about 3.30am on Saturday, waking the occupants as they entered armed with knives.
A 62-year-old grandmother, who had been staying with her daughter while receiving cancer treatment, was confronted inside the home. It is alleged one of the offenders held up a phone displaying a message indicating it was a robbery.
The pair allegedly told the occupants they were part of a larger group and claimed the family, including young children, were being held hostage.
During the incident, the offenders allegedly stole a number of items, including a wallet, car keys, children’s shoes and a vape.
Police claim the teenagers then attempted to steal a vehicle from the property but were unsuccessful after struggling to operate the manual transmission. The attempt was abandoned and the pair fled the scene.
The grandmother was not physically injured, however the incident has raised concerns about the impact such an ordeal could have on someone already undergoing intensive medical treatment.
Her daughter said the situation could have had far more serious consequences, particularly given her mother’s need for ongoing care.
Queensland Police confirmed a 15-year-old Springfield Lakes boy has been charged with multiple offences, including two counts of enter premises and commit indictable offence, as well as one count each of armed robbery and entering a dwelling with intent while armed.
He is being dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.
The second alleged offender remains outstanding and investigations are ongoing.
Police are urging anyone with information or CCTV footage from the area to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
