A buck’s day prank resulted in a man handing himself into police after CCTV footage was released of the theft of a replica rifle from the Warrnambool war memorial.
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The Warrnambool man, aged in his 30s, handed himself in on Monday night after the footage of the theft was revealed on The Standard’s website.
It’s believed the man was on his buck’s night when the theft occurred.
Warrnambool RSL sub-branch president John Miles said he wanted the man to put a public apology to the veterans in The Standard.
He said when the police rang to say he’d handed himself in, it was a relief.
“He’s very embarrassed and very remorseful,” he said.
“I believe he’s getting married on Saturday.
“He has handed himself in and apologised.
“I’ll give him that.”
Sergeant Chris Asenjo, from Warrnambool police, said the man was assisting police with their enquiries.
“He has also made enquiries with the RSL and has apologised,” Sergeant Asenjo said. “He is very remorseful.”
“Following an intensive media campaign, footage of the incident was released to The Standard has helped solve the crime.”
Sergeant Asenjo said the man would be interviewed later today.
Sergeant Asenjo said it appeared the man had no criminal malice.
“I think before he knew it the rifle was in his hands,” he said.
“He’s been to the RSL to see how he can make this right.
“We’ll work with the RSL to find the best way to finalise this, whether that’s through the courts, we’ll wait and see.”
The rifle was stolen at 1.15am on Sunday. It was found nearby at History House in Gilles Street.
cquirk@fairfaxmedia.com.au
