Rick Danger Summerfield charged with assaulting child at River St boat ramp

A Mackay man accused of attacking a 12-year-old at a popular fishing spot allegedly failed to appear in court because he was confused, a court heard.

Rick Danger Summerfield is charged with allegedly assaulting a 12-year-old boy at the River St boat ramp. Photo: Fergus Gregg

The case against a Mackay man accused of attacking a 12-year-old at a popular fishing spot will be dealt with in the district court.

Matters were briefly mentioned in Mackay Magistrates Court on Wednesday after Rick Danger Summerfield, 54, allegedly failed to appear in court at an earlier date.

Harvey Legal solicitor Laura Santin said her client had recently learned about medical diagnosis that had been “causing him confusion to which day it is”.

Ms Santin said Mr Summerfield did attend the police station that same evening after missing his court appearance.
She told the court her client would be able to show cause and said she would send over the medical documents.

Rick Danger Summerfield is charged with allegedly assaulting a 12-year-old boy at the River St boat ramp. Photo: Fergus Gregg

The court heard Mr Summerfield had another follow up about the medical diagnosis in six months.

He is charged with assault causing bodily harm for an alleged attack on a 12-year-old boy near the River St boat ramp on September 24.

Mr Summerfield is also accused of wilfully damaging fishing rods during the alleged assault.

He was arrested the following day – September 25.

Ms Santin requested committal directions be made in relation to the assault charge as it would be dealt with in the district court.

No pleas have been entered on either charge.

Acting Magistrate Nigel Rees ordered the police brief of evidence be provided by January 8, 2025 and the matter was adjourned to mid February for committal mention.

Mr Summerfield’s appearance was excused on that date.