Siblings raid shop with axe
A would-be burglar spent time surveying the security and location of cellphones at Napier's 2 Degrees shop before breaking into it with family members on July 30.
Anzac Truly Houkamau, 19, and her cousin Mana Ratima were sentenced in the Napier District Court yesterday for their role in the burglary, which was the store's second consecutive overnight break-in.
Houkamau had spent time in the Emersen St shopping area checking out the shop before gathering two younger family members, aged 15 and 16, and her cousin Ratima to join her in the night time burglary.
A tomahawk was used to break the shop window and they took a chilly bin to collect the stolen goods. Once inside, Houkamau ripped phones from the wall.
Ratima was the last to enter, grabbing one item then fleeing within seconds.
In total, eight cellphones as well as some chargers and other items were taken, valued at about $1000.
Ratima had been drinking during the day and played a more minor role in the burglary, the court was told.
Judge Anne Gaskell sentenced Houkamau to 120 hours community work and to pay $250 reparation, while Ratima received 80 hours community work and $250 reparation.
