Footy fan bash trio could avoid jail
Two brothers and a mate, who admitted to attacking two men after a game at the MCG, could skip jail with all three accused saying they struggled with substance abuse issues.
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Three men who admit bashing two footy fans outside a Melbourne hotel after an AFL game may avoid jail.
Brothers Sam and Dominic Walker and Benjamin Fitt, all aged in their 20s, are pleading guilty to intentionally causing injury to David Raeside and Leonard Tricarico outside the Pullman hotel, a short walk from the MCG, on September 7 last year.
On Monday, magistrate Duncan Reynolds ordered the trio be assessed for community corrections orders this Friday, ahead of sentencing on October 22.
Sam Walker’s lawyer, Dermot Dann QC, said he was a man of “good character” who has struggled with drug and alcohol issues.
He said his mental illness had contributed to his offending.
“He should be given credit for the plea of guilty,” Mr Dann said.
Fitt’s lawyer Peter Morrissey SC said his client was a “gentle soul” who wanted to rescue his friends when he became entangled in “shameful behaviour”.
“He was out of his depth in a situation he didn’t choose,” Mr Morrissey said.
Mr Morrissey said his client had a major depressive disorder and alcohol issues and jail was not an appropriate punishment.
“The community does not need him to be put in prison,” he said.
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Dominic Walker’s lawyer said her client was intoxicated at the time and working through substance abuse issues.
She said he was revolted by his actions when he watched footage of the incident.
“This has been a watershed moment in his life,” she said.