Jordan Carlos Joel punched man in the head while he was looking for the loo

A man who was looking for a loo in Surfers Paradise was punched in the head repeatedly by a warehouse worker because he spoke to a woman in his group. WHAT HAPPENED

A man who was looking for a loo in Surfers Paradise was punched in the head repeatedly by a warehouse worker because he spoke to a woman in his group.

Jordan Carlos Joel punched the man repeatedly on Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise in the early hours of July 24 last year.

His 32-year-old victim only escaped by running towards police.

Joel, 20, pleaded guilty in the Southport Magistrates Court on Wednesday to assault occasioning bodily harm.

The court was told the victim had asked police where the nearest public toilets were and then headed in that direction when he came across Joel and his group.

As the victim approached Joel attacked, pushing him in the chest and back before punching him to the head.

The victim turned and ran back towards police.

His glasses were broken and he was left with bruises on his head.

Magistrate Catherine Pirie sentenced Joel to 18 months’ probation and 150 community service. She also ordered he pay to have the victim’s glasses repaired. No conviction recorded.

“Residents of the Gold Coast are heartily sick of violence like this in Surfers Paradise and to a lesser extent Broadbeach,” she said.

Magistrate Pirie also noted the public was entitled to feel safe.

“The Gold Coast is a tourist town and much income is generated by tourism and tourists become concerned when violence is inflicted,” she said.

“A lot of work has been done to keep people safe.”

The court was told Joel had written an apology and was willing to pay compensation.

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