Nicky Laauli pleads guilty to serious assault of police by biting

An Ipswich dad is set to go straight into the custody of the Australian Border Force following a disturbing attack on a police officer.

A dad who lashed out at police during an arrest is facing the prospect of being sent to his native country after facing sentence in Ipswich.

Appearing from jail via video-link before Ipswich Magistrates Court, Nicky Laauli, 32, from Brassall, pleaded guilty to six offences that include serious assault of a police officer by biting on April 7 last year; two counts of obstructing police; and breaching his bail conditions.

Some charges also related to an incident on August 10, 2020.

In that incident Laauli was hiding beneath blankets and clothing when a struggle ensured as officers tried to arrest and handcuff him.

Prosecutor Sergeant Nicholas Turnbull tended four photos of the bite inflicted on a constable’s hand.

Sgt Turnbull said the bite caused the officer pain and drew blood. After biting the officer Laauli also tried to bite another male at the scene.

“He is a mature man, a violent man,” Sgt Turnbull said.

“This is an offence of violence by a mature person who chose to assault a police officer by biting them.”

Defence lawyer Rijald Hadzalic sought a 12-month jail penalty immediately suspended with 21 days custody declared.

“He will go straight into custody of Australian Border Force holding cell,” Mr Hadzalic said.

Magistrate David Shepherd sentenced Laauli to 15 months’ jail for the serious assault of a police officer, suspended for three years.

He was convicted only of the obstructing offences.