Mental health issues led to William Foster Kennedy’s brutal assault on security guard

A Gold Coast welfare recipient has walked free from court after he punched a security guard in the face. READ WHAT HAPPENED

A Gold Coast welfare recipient who downed shots, cocktails and beer before he punched a security guard has walked free from court.

But the man said mental health issues ultimately resulted in the unprovoked attack at the popular venue.

William Foster Kennedy, 35, pleaded guilty in Southport Magistrates Court on Tuesday to assault occasioning bodily harm in a public place while intoxicated.

The father had been drinking at the Southport Sharks club on May 14 when he became aggressive and punched a security guard in the face with a closed fist about 9pm.

The victim suffered bruising and swelling.

Kennedy left the venue after the assault but police later tracked him down by his photo identification, the court was told.

Duty lawyer Lisa Searing said the 35-year-old made full admissions to police and expressed remorse for his actions.

She said Kennedy - who suffered from severe anxiety, panic attacks and suicidal ideations - was unable to work until given clearance by a doctor.

“I’m instructed that over the last 12 months his mental health has deteriorated significantly, resulting in this incident,” Ms Searing said.

Magistrate Jane Bentley took into account Kennedy’s early guilty plea, his admissions to police and stated remorse when she handed down the sentence.

“Obviously your intoxication is no excuse for your behaviour, but it may be some explanation as to why you behaved in that way or lost control,” she said.

Kennedy was fined $750.

A conviction was recorded.

Support is available:

– Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14

– Beyondblue: 1300 224 636

Follow @Melwhiting