Shaun Christopher Michael tried to run from police after allegedly stealing mail from Southport complex

A Gold Coast man stopped for allegedly stealing mail punched a police officer three times in the face as he tried to get away. SEE VIDEO OF THE DRAMATIC ARREST >>>

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A GOLD Coast man stopped for allegedly stealing mail punched a police officer three times in the face as the tried to get away.

Dramatic body camera footage of the incident obtained by the Bulletin shows Shaun Christopher Michael calmly talking to police officers before suddenly getting up and running.

Shaun Christopher Michael moments before he tries to flee from police during an arrest. Picture: Supplied

He punches a police officer who tries to stop him.

A police officer puts Michael in a chokehold on the ground.

The footage is unclear but Michael can be heard breathing heavily.

He soon passes out and police officers are heard yelling “wake up”.

Shaun Christopher Michael attempting to run from police. Picture: Supplied

Michael pleaded guilty in the Southport Magistrates Court on Tuesday to assault police and obstructing police.

Magistrate Kay Philipson sentenced him to three months prison to be wholly suspended for nine months.

Police place Shaun Christopher Michael in a choke hold. Picture: Supplied

The court was told Michael had a drug problem but had managed to turn his life around with the held of the Court Link program.

Court Link is a state government program which helps homeless and disadvantaged low level offenders access rehabilitation and financial assistance services.

Officers try to restrain Shaun Christopher Michael. Picture: Supplied

The aim is to stop reoffending.

Magistrate Philipson said Michael was one of the program’s success stories.

“The material would indicate that while you had some hiccups you made some significant and obvious changes,” she said.

Shaun Christopher Michael lies unconscious on the ground. Picture: Supplied

Defence lawyer Lee Quinn, of Hannay Lawyers, said outside of court that Michael was remorseful for his actions and had undertaken drug addiction courses.

“If he could take back and have it all again he really wouldn’t be doing what he did,” she said.

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