Centrelink spitter sentenced for COVID-19 breach

A 22-year-old has been sentenced for spitting towards Centrelink staff and threatening to stomp on his dog’s head during a “rage” about an undesirable outcome.

Zachary Elias Spencer spat at Centrelink staff.

A 22-year-old has been sentenced for spitting towards Centrelink staff and threatening to stomp on his dog's head during a "rage" about an undesirable outcome.

Zachary Elias Spencer was on Thursday placed on probation for 12 months for his outburst at Nambour Centrelink on December 8 last year.

Maroochydore Magistrates Court heard Spencer grew angry when he didn't receive the outcome he wanted.

Police prosecutor Lee Allan said Spencer, from Nambour, threatened to stab people and go to jail.

"He's threatened to stomp on the head of his dog Little Dot that is currently being cared for by his mother," Senior Constable Allan said.

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He said Spencer "flew into a fit of rage" and approached a security guard.

"He spat on the floor in the direction of the staff member, two times on the carpet," Sen-Const Allan said.

"Clearly acting in a manner which would likely cause apprehension or fear of being exposed to COVID-19."

Spencer left Centrelink and walked down Maud St where he approached a stranger's Mazda CX5 in a carpark.

"The defendant has kicked the side-rear passenger door of the car causing a large dent in the panel," Sen-Const Allan said.

A witness called police and Spencer was arrested.

Spencer on Thursday pleaded guilty to four charges including failing to comply with a COVID-19 public health direction.

The court heard he had previously received probation for his behaviour.

"Perhaps a further term of probation may be warranted given he is receiving assistance however he is sailing close to the wind," Sen-Const Allan said.

Defence lawyer Michael Robinson said his client had longstanding mental health issues and he wasn't taking his medication at the time because he couldn't afford it.

He said Spencer was now medicated and had a job lined up as a kitchen hand.

Magistrate Haydn Stjernqvist said the Nambour incident was deplorable and the key for Spencer was to remain on his medication.

No compensation was sought for the damage to the Mazda.

Convictions were recorded.

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