Teen thug who attacked police officer at Highpoint shopping centre walks free
A TEEN thug who kicked a defenceless policeman in the face at Highpoint shopping centre has walked free after serving less than a month in custody.
Law & Order
Don't miss out on the headlines from Law & Order. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A TEEN thug who kicked a defenceless policeman in the face has walked free after serving less than a month in custody.
The 17-year-old, who was on probation for crimes including home invasions and car theft when he attacked the officer at Highpoint shopping centre on Boxing Day, was last week released on probation once more.
HIGHPOINT ASSAULT: POLICE OFFICER INJURED IN REPORTED BOXING DAY INCIDENT
ACCUSED POLICE KICKER BACK IN CUSTODY AFTER BAIL BREACH
ACCUSED COP KICKER TEEN REFUSED TO GET ON COURT BUS
POLICE HUNT AFTER CRIME SPREE TERRORISES MELBOURNE’S WEST
The senior constable, who had been detaining a shoplifter, was on his hands and knees when the teenager rushed towards him and kicked him in the face.
Last week, a children’s court sentenced the boy to nine months’ probation, without conviction.
Police Association secretary Wayne Gatt hit out at the sentence, saying the law was meant to be cracking down on such violence.
“How can you not receive a conviction for kicking a police officer in the face in an unprovoked public attack? A month on remand and nine months on probation is light when you consider the potential outcome of this type of attack,” he said.
Do you agree with Mr Gatt? Have your say in the comments section below
Mr Gatt said: “We have strict laws for one-punch attacks yet a police officer in Victoria can be kicked in the head and the offender is free to walk without a blot on his record.”
The teen was arrested on December 29 and bailed days later, despite opposition from prosecutors who likened the onslaught to a “soccer kick”.
And they argued: “Your Honour has also heard information that his attitude has not been positive. He’s not made any admissions. There is no evidence of remorse.”
Within days, bail was revoked, after the boy breached the conditions of his release by carrying a smartphone.
He had remained in custody until last Thursday’s sentencing.
The court had heard the teen wanted to embark on VCE studies this year.
Mr Gatt said the teen had been most fortunate, but his victim had not been.
“He booted a police officer in the head, got bail, breached his bail, and a month later he is back in the community,” he said. “He’s very lucky the court process was so swift for him, because there’s no doubt the legacy of his attack will stay with our member for far, far longer.”