Emma Jayne Cox pleads guilty in Cleveland court to assaulting woman
A Brisbane bayside nursing agency worker has faced court after a drunken assault on a woman who cut in line for a drink.
Redlands Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Redlands Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A bayside nursing agency worker made a “split second” decision that could have changed the course of her life when she attacked a woman who cut in line for a drink at a pub.
Redland Bay’s Emma Jayne Cox, 24, called the woman fat before grabbing her hair and pulling her to the ground.
The scuffle unfolded while the two women were at Cleveland Sands Hotel on September 24 in 2022.
“The victim and her friends were enjoying the night together,” the police prosecutor told Cleveland Magistrates Court.
“(The victim) was accused of cutting in line and as a result an altercation occurred.
“(Cox) called the victim fat and the victim took offence to this.
“The victim went to purchase more drinks before (Cox) grabbed her hair and pulled her to the ground.
“Whilst on the ground (Cox) punched the victim one time.”
When Cox pleaded guilty on Thursday to common assault, the court heard security separated the two women and asked Cox to leave the premises.
“She made full admissions and was unable to explain the reason for assaulting her,” the police prosecutor said.
“People should be able to go out and enjoy the community without ending up in a fight on the floor.”
Lawyer Mitchell Cunningham said his client — who worked at First Choice Agency after previously studying as a nurse — was remorseful for her actions.
“My client is deeply embarrassed to be before the court,” Mr Cunningham said.
Magistrate Deborah Vasta said she hoped Cox realised the seriousness of the assault.
“I’m hoping you are starting to realise the effects of alcohol,” Ms Vasta said.
“In a split second you have made a decision that could have potentially changed the course of your life.
“If she had fallen on glass or hit her head, it could have potentially changed the course of your life.”
Cox was ordered to pay $500 restitution to the victim.
No convictions were recorded.
Bystanders’ actions praised, as crash victim identified as young dad
Friends of a 27-year-old man who died in a single-vehicle crash on Brisbane’s bayside have told of the admirable actions of two bystanders, who comforted him at the scene before paramedics arrived.
Mayor’s ultimatum: Pay more or lose services despite $211m net result
A southside mayor has triggered calls to abolish elected councillors after giving ratepayers a stark choice: pay more or lose services, despite his council forecasting a $211 million net result.