Man accused of bashing Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner breaks silence
The teenager charged with bashing one of Victoria’s top cops claims he’s received “violent and aggressive” death threats, saying members of the public need to be held accountable for their actions towards him.
Law & Order
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The teen charged with bashing a Victorian police officer so severely he was left with fractured ribs and internal bleeding says he’s received death threats and wants those sending them to be held accountable.
Isaiah Stephens, 18, was charged with his brother Jay Stephens, 20, over the June bashing that left Assistant Commissioner Chris O’Neill, 60, in hospital.
In his first interview since being charged and released on bail, the 18-year-old told Nine he wants something done about those targeting him.
“A lot of people wanna hurt me,” he said. “It’s quite violent and aggressive.”
He said he was trying to “move on from what’s happened” but members of the public have “clearly made up their mind” and “should be held accountable for what they’re doing”.
He told Nine he doesn’t think the case deserves as much attention as it has received.
“I found it a bit of a joke how much media attention an 18-year-old boy can get,” he said.
Jay Stephens remains behind bars ahead of his next court appearance. The brothers have been banned from communication with each or with their father, Jared Pihlgren, who was charged last month for sending threats to police on Facebook.
Melbourne Magistrates’ Court last month heard the brothers were kicked off a train for unruly behaviour that included vomiting and urinating in a carriage.
Mr O’Neill was on the platform at Heyington Station when the brothers got off the train. He followed them into the grounds of St Kevin’s College in Toorak where he was assaulted.
Victoria Police Sergeant Matthew Rizun said the brothers had been “intimidating” and drinking alcohol before they were asked to leave.
He said one of the brothers confronted Mr O’Neill before the “unprovoked” attack.
“The victim informed me that as he turned the corner (inside the college), Jay Stephens said to him ‘What are you looking at?’” Sgt Rizun said.
“Mr O’Neill said, ‘Nothing mate’.”
Sgt Rizun said both co-accused punched Mr O’Neill to the face and body.
Sgt Rizun said the family had been “very active” on social media. He was referring to Facebook posts from Mr Pihlgren.
One of the posts, which has since been deleted, allegedly read: “I’d piss on you Chris O’Neill ya maggot dog. I got zero respect and you know why. F--- the police and your crew ya swine. You attack mine, god help yours.”
Another allegedly read: “Cops want war let’s start gangland killings again.”
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Outside court, Mr Pihlgren told reporters he hates police.
“Do you have a hatred for police?” he was asked.
“Yes I do,” he said.
“Why’s that?”
“Because they’re criminals.”
He reiterated his belief the Assistant Commissioner was a “maggot” when pressed on the matter.
“Why did you call the Assistant Commissioner a maggot?” Mr Pihlgren was asked by Nine.
“Because he is,” he responded.
Mr Pihlgren has been released on bail. Jay Stephens remains behind bars ahead of his next court appearance in September.