New Brighton Police continue to investigate the aggravated robbery of the Wainoni Food Market on Monday 4 August 2008 where a BB gun was discharged at the offenders.
As part of the investigative process and after consultation with the Christchurch Crown Solicitors office it has been determined that the dairy owner will not face criminal charges arising from the incident.
Detective Sergeant Paul Merrett says this should not be seen as a precedent or indicator to any future decision in a similar situation.
"The victim of the robbery has been advised of this decision," he says. "Police would like to reinforce advice given to all retailers that active resistance in this situation is not encouraged."
Police continue to offer the following advice for business owners in the event they find themselves facing an armed robbery situation;
„X Remain as calm as possible and do not take any unnecessary risk.
„X Listen carefully to demands, and do what you are told without question.
„X Remember that the aim is to ensure the offender leaves the premises as quickly as possible without injury or harm to anyone.
„X Money and possessions can be replaced.
„X Try and discretely note as much as possible about the offender and his clothing.
„X Note the offender's direction of travel if it is safe to do so.
„X Only use force or resistance when it is clear it is critically necessary.
"I urge members of the public to consider that aggressive responses by victims in these situations are inherently dangerous and should be avoided where possible," says Detective Sergeant Merrett.
Police are still interested in hearing from any members of the public who may have seen two males entering or leaving the Wainoni Food Market on Monday 4 August at about 8.30 pm.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Constable Matt Grant of the New Brighton Police on (03) 3739111