Man Faces Court Over Theft Of $1m Diamond Ring

Published on 14/06/10

A 30-year-old man faced the Melbourne Magistrates Court today over the smash-and-grab theft of a $1 million diamond ring from a high-end CBD jewellery shop in March last year.

George Georgiou, of Northcote, dressed in a black T-shirt and of slim build, did not apply for bail and was not granted bail in a brief hearing.

He is alleged to have fled to Thailand's seaside resort of Pattaya after the brazen robbery.

The court heard Georgiou has spent the last eight months in a Thai prison before being extradited to Victoria.

He is charged with stealing a 9.1 carat diamond set on a silver ring “being the property of Hardy Brothers Jeweller and valued at $1 million”.

He is also charged with destroying the front window of the jewellers, which is valued at $5000.

Police allegedly discovered a mini sledgehammer which they believe was used to smash the window of the Collins Street store during the theft.