Thomas Roy Frampton pleads guilty to wilful damage

A MacLeay Island dad has labelled himself a “drunken fool” before the Cleveland Magistrates Court, after his bizarre behaviour while spending a night in the watch house.

A MacLeay Island dad has labelled himself a “drunken fool” before the Cleveland Magistrates Court, after his bizarre behaviour while spending a night in the watch house.

A MacLeay Island father has labelled himself a “drunken fool” before the Cleveland Magistrates Court, after damaging the Cleveland Watch House with his jewellery.

Thomas Roy Frampton pleaded guilty to wilful damage on October 24, 2023.

The 41-year-old was arrested on October 3, 2023 for being a public nuisance and was placed in custody.

Police prosecutor Daniel Agresta said Frampton had a ring stuck on his finger that couldn’t be removed, while in custody.

“Police were unable to remove the ring and at 6.48pm observed him to be edging (his initials) TF in the paintwork using the ring on his finger,” Mr Agresta said.

“He has history of a like nature and the watch house is funded by the public.

“The watch house has only just been refurbished,” he said.

Sergeant Agresta submitted that Frampton should be sentenced to serve a significant amount of community service.

Frampton, who represented himself, told the court he had drunk “way too much”.

“I was acting like a drunken fool, I know I did the wrong thing and I have to wear it,” Frampton said.

“I’ve been in jail a couple of times and don’t ever want to go back,” he said.

Frampton submitted he could not partake in physical labour for community service as he was awaiting ankle surgery.

Magistrate Deborah Vasta told Frampton his behaviour mimiced a 10-year-old.

“You’re starting to accumulate quite a history,” Ms Vasta said.

“Think of what your daughters would be doing while you’re in custody.

“You’re going to have to keep up with the drinking interventions,” she said.

Frampton was sentenced to 12 months probation, to be served concurrently with his current 9 month probation order.

Convictions were recorded.