Mark Anthony Kok pleads guilty to assaulting police officer

A Bayside tradie of 50 years who is also a Neighbourhood Watch volunteer has faced court for the first time in his life after punching a police officer in a “moment of adrenaline”.

Mark Anthony Kok pleads guilty to assaulting police officer

A respected, long-serving Redland tradie and community volunteer has been sentenced for his first run in with the law after he assaulted a police officer at his home earlier this year.

Mark Anthony Kok, 65, pleaded guilty to obstructing and assaulting the Snr-Constable on February 11.

Police Prosecutor Daniel Agresta told Cleveland Magistrates Court that officers attended Kok’s home in Birkdale that afternoon.

“Police attended the home to investigate a breach of a domestic violence order and an attempted burglary offence of the defendant’s son,” Sgt Agresta said.

“Police entered through the unlocked front door. The defendant came from the back door and started yelling at police and told them to leave.

“Police advised him that his son was under arrest and the defendant put his hand on the chest of an officer and started to resist.’’

The court heard Kok then used his closed fist to hit the other officer.

Mark Anthony Kok leaving Cleveland Magistrates Court.

“After some physical fighting (Kok and his son) were arrested and transported to the Cleveland watchhouse,” Sgt Agresta said.

“The officer suffered pain and discomfort.

“The defendant has no criminal history but this behaviour should not be tolerated.

“The prosecution submits a period of community service or a significant fine and compensation to the officer for closed fist fighting.’’

Kok’s lawyer, William Hodgen, said his client had been a carpenter in the Redlands region for more than 50 years.

“He has an exemplary work history,” Mr Hodgen said.

“He is a very well respected in the community.

“From his point of view he was surprised when he saw the police and accepts he has committed assault and obstructed police.’’

Mr Hodgen said it was an emotionally charged situation.

Magistrate Deborah Vasta acknowledged Kok’s contribution to the community through sport and Neighbourhood Watch.

“It was a moment of adrenaline in the protection of your son,” Ms Vasta said.

“It was all out of blue and within 120 to 180 seconds you find yourself before the court all because of the adrenaline.’’

Kok was ordered to pay a $1000 fine and $500 in compensation to the police officer he punched.

Convictions were not recorded.