Jwuan Eru-Guthrie pleads guilty to assaulting complete stranger in Cairns

A Sunshine Coast roofer has admitted to attacking a complete stranger after he was seen yelling and punching a phone booth on the street.

Jwuan David Atama Eru-Guthrie outside Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Picture: Sam Turner

An innocent stranger has been the victim of a violent one punch attack in Far North Queensland at the hands of a Sunshine Coast roofer.

Jwuan David Atama Eru-Guthrie admitted in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Wednesday to his violent conduct, which left his victim with bruising and swelling to his face, after he pleaded guilty to assault, commit public nuisance and contravening a police direction.

Police prosecutor Mark Burrell said Eru-Guthrie, who was listed as living in the Cairns suburb of Manoora, was in Cairns City about 10.45pm on September 7 last year when he was seen screaming and punching a phone booth.

Sergeant Burrell said the 22-year-old spotted the victim, who he did not know and just happened to be walking past, and challenged him to a brawl while swearing at him.

The man tried to talk Eru-Guthrie out of the fight by walking away however was pushed in the chest by the roofer before he was slogged in the face.

In a matter of weeks the Manoora man was seen causing a disturbance again, this time outside Gilligans Bar in Cairns City about 11pm on October 25.

He pleaded guilty to all charges. Picture: Sam Turner

The court was told the 22-year-old was seen on closed circuit television trying to start fights with people on the street. Police arrived and spoke to the 22-year-old and his mate, who was removed from Gilligans Bar. He was told to move on by police.

Sergeant Burrell said Eru-Guthrie was seen a short time later trying to get into Gilligans Bar by climbing over a back fence. He also tried to get into Down Under bar.

The police prosecutor asked for jail time and referenced a previous conviction the Manoora man had for grievous bodily harm where he stabbed another man during a street fight in Birtinya.

He was jailed for three years following an appeal and given a parole release date after spending 254 days in jail prior to his sentence.

Eru-Guthrie, who represented himself in court, said he left the Far North to get away from bad influences and currently lived on the Sunshine Coast with his girlfriend.

The 22-year-old said he does not drink or even go out much anymore. He also boxed in his spare time.

Magistrate Chris Callaghan placed Eru-Guthrie on a nine month jail term, which was suspended immediately for 12 months.

He must also pay $500 in compensation to the victim.