Harley Cook, 22, of Spring Street, had been staying in his grandfather’s caravan and was told to move out before he stole the money on February 8.

He was charged and pleaded guilty to stealing property from a dwelling, and obtaining property by deception because he bought a car with some of the money. 

According to police facts, Cook’s grandfather had saved the money over the past 11 or 12 years from his fortnightly pension. 

However, while staying in the caravan, Cook found out about the safe. 

Police facts said the pair had two arguments on February 6 and 7 that resulted in the grandfather telling Cook to find somewhere else to live.

Late on February 8, the grandfather discovered the money missing and reported it to police.

Cook moved into a shed belonging to a friend and later offered the friend’s mother $500 to drive him to Inverell so he could buy a Holden Commodore, which he paid for in cash.

On February 9, police searched the shed where Cook was staying while he was still away and found $10,000 in cash hidden in an envelope in a wall cavity, and more money in a wallet.

Cook was represented in Orange Local Court last Monday by solicitor Ben Tonkin and was sentenced by magistrate Terry Lucas.

“I believe a suspended sentenced would be suitable for this matter,” Mr Tonkin told the court after handing up the approved facts.

However, the department of prosecution’s representative said the age of the victim was an aggravating factor.

“I ask you to take into account the offenders absolute lack of remorse for his elderly grandfather who has done nothing but assist him out of his own heart,” she said.

Mr Lucas spoke out against Cook’s actions towards his grandfather but said because he pleaded guilty he was eligible to a 25 per cent discount on his sentence.