Nickolas White in Maroochydore court for assaulting neighbour at Varsity unit

A “gifted” graphic designer who physically and verbally abused his neighbour into letting him take his car has faced court for the violent attack.

A “gifted” graphic designer who physically and verbally abused his neighbour into letting him take his car has faced court for the attack.

Nickolas White, 40, was placed on probation for 18 months in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on July 1, 2022 after pleading guilty to common assault, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and two counts of obstructing police.

The court heard White was living at university accommodation on Varsityview Way, Sippy Downs, where the victim was also staying.

Police prosecutor David Hoffman said White abused the victim, calling him a “c--t” and a “dog’.

White then grabbed the victim by his left shoulder challenging him to a fight and threatening to “bash” him.

Nickolas White, 40, leaves Maroochydore Magistrates Court.

The victim left the unit block to get away from White, but he followed him outside and continued to challenge him to a fight.

Senior Constable Hoffman said White shoved the victim in the chest and pushed him into a vehicle before demanding the keys to the victim’s car.

When the victim asked why he wanted his keys, White said he wanted to steal the vehicle.

The victim retreated back inside and White followed him and threatened to “f-----g kill him”.

The court heard White threw a chair against the wall and threw the victim up against the wardrobe, repeatedly threatening to kill him.

The victim “unwillingly” handed over the keys and White left in the car.

Nickolas White, 40, leaves Maroochydore Magistrates Court.

Magistrate Rod Madsen said he couldn’t accept there was a threat made because the charge of robbery had been discontinued.

White’s defence solicitor said his client was suffering a psychosis at the time and had been making steps towards rehabilitation since the offending.

White wrote apology letters to the victim and the two police officers involved after spending 69 days in presentence custody.

The court was told White had an “extremely prejudicial” upbringing but now works full time as a “gifted” graphic designer for a reputable company.

Magistrate Madsen did not record convictions against White.