‘Arrogant silence’: Balta assault victim sues for compensation

A man who was assaulted by Noah Balta has begun civil proceedings against the Richmond star for “serious injuries”, accusing him of “arrogant silence” in the wake of the incident.

The victim of an assault at the hands of Richmond star Noah Balta has started civil proceedings against him “by reason of his arrogant silence” according to a statement from his lawyer.

John Suta, who is representing 27-year-old Thomas Washbrook, released the statement on Friday after the Richmond Football Club didn’t respond to invitations to “negotiate an amicable resolution” to the matter.

In that correspondence, addressed to CEO Shane Dunne, Mr Suta states they are looking for compensation after Balta’s assault resulted in his client suffering “serious injuries, loss and damage”.

“Our client has incurred medical expenses, loss of income, damage to his personal effects to his mobile and telephone and clothing,” it reads.

“Particulars of these damages are being compiled and will be provided as soon as possible.”

Balta pleaded guilty to assault following the late-night incident at a Mulwala pub late last year. Picture: Michael Klein

It also lists the injuries suffered by his client following the assault as severe and extensive facial lacerations, abrasions and bruising, concussion, rib fractures, headaches and facial swelling.

The victim is also suffering from post traumatic stress, shock and anxiety it states.

Mr Suta called into question Richmond’s claims that Balta was hoping to make up for his mistakes.

“If Mr Balta was genuinely remorseful in respect to the assault inflicted upon my client I would have thought he would have acted with alacrity in order to make amends to my client,” he said in his statement.

“Particularly with the unlimited resources at the disposal of Mr Balta.”

They now had no choice but to commence legal proceedings against him, Mr Suta said.

“Mr Balta by reason of his arrogant silence has left my client with no option but to institute legal proceedings against him with the additional costs and inconvenience associated with formal litigation.”

Balta will next face court on March 27. Picture: David Crosling

Mr Suta said they had hoped to avoid taking the legal route.

“The Richmond Football Club acknowledged receipt of my letter by email on 30 January 2025, however no further response has been received from or on behalf of Mr Balta,” he said.

“It is most regrettable that our invitation to negotiate an amicable resolution to this matter has been declined.”

Balta pleaded guilty to assault following the late-night incident at a Mulwala pub late last year which saw him charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

His bail was extended by Magistrate Melissa Humphrey and he will next face court on March 27.

Richmond Football Club declined to comment.