Mackay court: Alex Ashley Assenberg’s case delayed after offhand comment

A Mackay man begged a Magistrate to let him plead guilty to assaulting police, even though he knew he’d be jailed. But just a few words put his case on hold.

Mr Assenberg was charged with multiple counts of assaulting police and spitting in the mouth of one officer. Photo: Fergus Gregg

A Mackay man landed in custody for allegedly attacking police and damaging police property.

Police allege Alex Ashley Assenberg wilfully damaged a car window on May 19, 2025.

The court heard Mr Assenberg was previously intending to return to work at KFC. Photo: Fergus Gregg

He is further charged with damaging a book, toilet bowl and cell floor, the property of police between May 20 and May 23, before ultimately being charged with assaulting a police officer and causing them bodily harm on May 26.

On July 3, 2025 Mr Assenberg appeared by videolink in the Mackay Magistrates Court and pleaded guilty to the charges, but began to dispute an additional charge.

Acting Magistrate Linda Bradford-Morgan said, “I can’t accept that as a voluntary plea” and suggested the matter be stood down so solicitor Adam Harvey could take instructions from his client.

Mr Assenberg immediately began disputing the decision, calling for the sentencing to proceed.

“I want to plead guilty to everything and be sentenced … I take accountability for my actions,” Mr Assenberg said.

“I do want to get it over and done with, so I have signed paperwork pleading to that.”

Mr Harvey said Mr Assenberg was “aware” he would receive a sentence of imprisonment for the alleged offending.

Mr Assenberg was previously convicted for spitting in the mouth of a police officer. Photo: Fergus Gregg

Ms Bradford-Morgan said she could still not proceed with a plea of guilty.

Mr Assenberg said he wanted to serve time and asked, “what would have happened if I just had of said guilty?” to which Ms Bradford-Morgan said, “we’ll never know”.

“I’m sure another Magistrate will be able to accommodate your request but not today,” Ms Bradford-Morgan said.

“This is a consequence of the comment you’ve just made Mr Assenberg.”

The sentencing was adjourned until early August.