Setback for reformed bank robber Setback for reformed bank robber - National: press.co.nz

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Setback for reformed bank robber Monday, 30 June 2008

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Rehabilitation for double bank robber and long-time solvent sniffer Anthony Trevor Grafton has suffered a setback with a conviction for stealing a can of spray-paint from The Warehouse.

Grafton told the police he took the $9.99 spray can because he was addicted.

He had not been seen at court since he got onto a serious rehabilitation programme at Nova Lodge, Christchurch Court News website reports.

That was early last year, when the 38-year-old beneficiary was said to be making impressive progress to overcome his 20-year drug habit.

He had surprised everyone by sticking to the programme.

It was a chance for him, because he was due for sentence for two bank robberies committed in early 2006 when he was desperate for money to buy drugs.

Grafton demanded money from tellers at two Christchurch banks. He made his getaway in taxis both times. Only $100 - used to pay a taxi fare - has been recovered of the $1300 he took. He was bound to be caught because he was so well known, did not use a disguise within view of the security cameras, and used taxis to get away.

In Christchurch District Court today, he admitted shoplifting the spray can on Friday.

Defence counsel Gilbert Hay said Grafton ``seems to be in fairly bad shape at present''. He had recently been released from hospital after surgery and was on medication.

Judge Raoul Neave convicted and discharged him.

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