Officer allegedly drunkenly slapped woman’s bottom at Gold Coast venue

A NSW organised crime squad cop was working on the arrest of high profile businessman Eddie Hayson when he allegedly drunkenly slapped the bottom of a female patron at a Gold Coast casino.

A NSW organised crime squad cop was working on the arrest of high profile businessman Eddie Hayson when he allegedly drunkenly slapped the bottom of a female patron at a Gold Coast casino.

Detective Sergeant Beau Maher, 38, has been charged with common assault in a public place while intoxicated.

Documents tendered to Southport Magistrates Court state that Maher, from Western Sydney allegedly assaulted the woman at The Star casino in Broadbeach on February 5.

He was arrested and detained overnight at the Southport watch-house before being released on bail.

His lawyers have asked for the case to be sent to justice mediation and be adjourned until June 18.

NSW Police officer Beau Maher.

Eddie Hayson arrives at Sydney domestic airport from the Gold Coast.

Documents on the court file state that Maher first appeared in court on February 19 where Magistrate Jane Bentley noted on the file “written plea of guilty declined — too serious and CSO mandatory”. CSO stands for community service order.

His occupation on court documents is recorded as “unknown” but NSW police sources have confirmed that a senior officer was dispatched to the Gold Coast to liaise with Queensland police and to travel back with Maher.

It is also confirmed at the time of the incident, Maher was on the Gold Coast working on an operation which involved Sydney racing identity Hayson.

A police media statement says Maher’s “employment status is currently under review”.

Hayson, a former brothel owner, was extradited from the Gold Coast on serious drug supply charges in February.

Police allege the 55-year-old was involved in transporting $5 million worth of drugs from WA to Sydney last August.

In court in March, Hayson was refused bail after his lawyer argued he needed to undergo urgent dental and ankle surgery, and will return in court in May.

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