Grant Ferguson sentenced in Darwin Local Court for aggravated assault
An Australian dad who drunkenly walloped another man has asked a judge not to convict him, citing concerns US and Mexico authorities might turn him away.
An Australian dad who drunkenly punched another man has narrowly escaped conviction after a court heard a violent record might threaten his prospects of visiting the United States and Mexico.
Grant Joseph Ferguson, 53, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault on Friday morning – eight months after he drunkenly punched another man.
The full agreed facts of what occurred were not read on the record, however the court heard that in May, 2025, Ferguson was at a property in Virginia, Northern Territory, when he became drunk and fell asleep.
Awaking from his slumber, a groggy Ferguson went to grab a nearby bag believing it was his.
When another man pulled the bag from his grasp, Ferguson responded by punching him to the head.
For his trouble, Ferguson spent three days in custody.
Originally, he was also charged with assault with intent to steal, however that charge was eventually dropped.
Ferguson’s lawyer, Thomas Jilek, said his client was keen to put the matter behind him and had “put his hand up” for his actions.
Mr Jilek then turned his attention to Ferguson’s travel plans, saying his client intended to visit his sons who were living in Mexico.
“He’ll be seeking a visa to the United States and Mexico – invariably he’ll transit through the United States of America,” he said.
As such, Mr Jilek said his client hoped to avoid a conviction.
“A conviction – as opposed to a non-conviction – would weigh in favour of refusal (of entry),” he said.
Prosecutor Craig Laird said the assault was “not of a trivial nature” and pointed out Ferguson had a prior conviction for a violent offence.
“In the crown submission... this was not committed under extenuating circumstances,” he said.
“The only reason that this occurred was the level of the defendant’s intoxication.”
Judge Julie Franz noted she was in possession of a “really good letter” submitted by Open House, Salvation Army, which spoke positively of Ferguson’s character.
“The thing that stands out about you is all the effort you have made since this day,” she said.
Judge Franz did not convict Ferguson, who was instead given an 18-month community correction order.
More Coverage
Originally published as Grant Ferguson sentenced in Darwin Local Court for aggravated assault
