More jail for ‘slow learner’ on spree

A YOUNG Ayr man fresh out of jail risked it all for a pair of necklaces – only to be dubbed a “slow learner” for his slip back into criminal ways.

Ahli Jeffrey Barba, 19, was sentenced in Townsville Magistrates Court in December 2021 for a day-long crime spree across Ayr with a juvenile cooffender. But despite being let out on parole, he couldn’t stay out of trouble, Townsville District Court heard.

Barba landed himself before Judge Gregory Lynham where he pleaded guilty to seven charges including dangerous operation of a vehicle, robbery in company, and assault occasioning bodily harm while in company.

Over three days in January 2022, Barba and the same juvenile offender again took to the streets to commit crimes.

On January 19, a Toyota Hilux was stolen.

On January 21 Barba stole $31 worth of fuel and two packs of bourbon and cola cans.

Later, two teenagers were walking along a street when the stolen Hilux, driven by Barba, drove past. It swerved off the road, narrowly missing an elderly man, before turning around so fast the tyres screeched. He stopped the car 30cm in front of the teens, and his two co-offenders assaulted and threatened them.

Barba demanded one teen hand over his shoes and two chain necklaces.

Defence barrister Ross Malcomson said Barba had grown up with “loving and supportive” parents, but had started using drugs and drinking at 17.

Judge Gregory Lynham said Barba’s last stint in custody had not appeared to be a “powerful incentive” to keep him out of trouble.

“At the very least you’re a very slow learner,” he said.

Taking into account 34 days as time served, Barba was sentenced to three years jail with a parole eligibility date set in January 2023. He was disqualified from driving for two years.