John Harris Smith Elu fined for refusing to pay for bus ticket

An acting magistrate has told a man his money could be spent on his girlfriend after he was fined for causing a scene on a Townsville bus.

An acting magistrate has told a man his money could be spent on his girlfriend after he was fined for causing a scene on a Townsville bus.

John Harris Smith Elu was arrested after police were called to the SeaLink bus terminal on Monday at 7.30am.

Prosecuting for the police, Senior constable Erin Collis said Elu was found a short distance away.

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“The (bus driver) stated the defendant had a bicycle and wanted the bicycle as freight however had not paid for a freight ticket and refused to pay for a freight ticket,” she said.

“The defendant appeared to be very erratic in his behaviour and was heard to scream out, “F--k you, you are racist” and lunged towards the (bus driver) with his fists up.”

The Townsville Magistrates Court heard children were aboard the bus at the time.

He pleaded guilty to public nuisance.

Defence solicitor Shontelle Samuel told acting magistrate Peter Smid a fine would be in range for the offence.

Mr Smid fined Elu $800 and told him, “what a waste of money, you could spend it on taking your girlfriend out”.

Originally published as John Harris Smith Elu fined for refusing to pay for bus ticket