Moustafa Salami: Brighton Le Sands man convicted for assaulting police officer

A southwest Sydney truck driver assaulted a police officer at a crime scene where methamphetamine and stolen cars were allegedly found, a court has heard.

A camera-shy southwest Sydney truck driver was silent in court as he was convicted for assaulting a police officer at a crime scene where methamphetamine and stolen cars were allegedly found.

Moustafa Salami, 40, from Brighton-Le-Sands chose not to give evidence at Bankstown Local Court today as police officers detailed how an allegedly stolen vehicle led to Salami’s arrest.

The court heard police had reason to believe a stolen car was located on a Catherine St, Punchbowl property and obtained a warrant to search the home.

During that search, police found foils, scales, and methamphetamine in a granny flat at the back of the property, leading to suspicions the drug ice was being supplied at the property, sworn police testimony tendered to the court states.

On arriving at the address, Salami refused police directions to leave the crime scene and told officers he wanted to check on his mother-in-law who was inside.

There is no suggestion that Salami, nor his mother-in-law, were connected to the alleged stolen car nor the methamphetamine.

Salami was told he would be arrested if he did not leave, and after a tense exchange he was coaxed outside by police.

When he was outside, police allege a scuffle took place, including Salami slapping away the hand of an officer who was pushing him after another put his hand on his shoulder, the court heard.

Outside on the street Salami assaulted a police officer after constable Kieran Sullivan felt “fear” the 40-year-old would attack him, the court heard.

The court heard Salami had “closed fists” and his “chest puffed out” and said words to the effect of “do you want to have a go” to Cons. Sullivan, which was also detailed in sworn testimony from detective Mitchell Osbourne.

Body worn camera footage from police was reviewed by Mr McAnulty, who noted vehicles were partially obstructing the argument, and the closed fist couldn’t be seen.

Mr McAnulty told the court the crime of assault does not need to be physical.

“It’s the fear which is the gist of the assault, not the actual infliction of physical harm,” he said.

Mr McAnulty convicted Salami of the assault, placed him on a conditional release order for 18 months, and fined him $950.

“Mr Salami, at the end of the day you may not agree,” Mr McAnulty said. “Sometimes you’re better off just turning around and walking away.”

A second charge, of hindering police in the execution of duty was dismissed, as Mr McAnulty decided the 90 seconds it took for Salami to leave the scene was “not substantial”.