Grant Charles Lemos granted bail after allegedly holding up York Street Hammerstruck Jewellers

An Albany man accused of trying to rob a jewellery store has been granted bail after telling police the entire alleged plot was “only a joke”. Grant Charles Lemos, 44, appeared via video link from Albany Regional Prison on Thursday on one charge of stealing and one charge of attempted robbery. He was arrested on October 6, accused of trying to rob Hammerstruck Jewellers on York Street. Police prosecutor Sgt Warrick Walker told the court Mr Lemos had made admissions in relation to the alleged armed hold-up but told police it was “only a joke.” The 44-year-old man who works with horses, was represented by Wendy Stewart and made a successful application for bail, despite opposition from the prosecution who cited Lemos’ previous escape from custody in 2011. Mr Lemos appealed to Magistrate Dianne Scaddan saying he would “never do it again”. “I’m very sorry and remorseful for what I’ve done,” he said. Mr Lemos was granted bail with strict reporting conditions, a $1000 personal undertaking and a $1000 surety. Mr Lemos will next face court on October 26 for a series of alleged stealings from businesses around Albany.