Last Thursday's STAR brought the news that the apartment of Olympic star Usain Bolt had been robbed while he was competing overseas.

It is a sad day when a virtual hero in our nation is forced to endure such a violation. It just goes to show that no one is exempt from the clutches of criminals and we are all at risk.

On the day the hoodlums entered the track star's apartment, he was busy blowing away his competitors and impressing many in Europe. This is a man who essentially brought the country together in celebration during the Olympics, a man who caused the heart of every Jamaican to swell with pride. This is how we repay him - by stealing the things he has worked so hard to achieve.

Theft has become common place in this country and, though, to some, it might seem like a simple offence, we are sure the victims of robbery do not think so. There can be nothing worse than losing things you have worked hard for, in a split second, and to an undeserving, callous crook, no less.

Perhaps the penalties for larceny need to be stiffened as, in many instances, a simple tap on the wrist is all one convicted of simple larceny receives.

Housebreaking is a very serious offence and should be treated as such, whether it is the house of a politician, athlete or a vendor.

We hope this criminal realises he will not go unpunished and, even if he escapes the law, there is some punishment awaiting him elsewhere.