Teen escapes conviction after breaking into Crocosaurus Cove and taunting 5.1m saltwater crocodile

A DRUNK teenager who broke into Crocosaurus Cove and taunted a 5.1m saltie has walked from court without a conviction.

Crocosaurus Cove in conjunction with the NT News is running a competition to name their new 5m monster crocodile.

A DRUNK teenager who broke into Crocosaurus Cove and taunted a 5.1m saltie has walked from court without a conviction.

Liam McGregor, 19, yesterday admitted entering the tourist attraction and causing about $100 worth of damage in the early hours of May 3.

The Darwin Magistrates Court heard he and his friend Josteph Puntoriero scaled the fence and used a bamboo pole to tease star Burt the croc. They then threw a sign and pink buoy into his enclosure.

Following their arrest a short time later, McGregor told police he had “no intention of breaking anything and entered out of curiosity”.

Defence lawyer Jodi Truman asked Chief Magistrate John Lowndes not to record a conviction.

Ms Truman said the two young men “made a very stupid decision” that was out of character. The court heard the pair sent a letter to Crocosaurus Cove and called them every day for one week to arrange a time to apologise in person.

Ms Truman said a statement provided by Crocosaurus Cove management indicated they supported her application not to record a conviction. She said McGregor had paid for the damage caused and was willing to pay a fine.

Dr Lowndes said he would not record a conviction but said “some sting” must be inflicted on the young man to punish him and deter others.

“This kind of mischief could’ve had the potential to have more serious consequences,” he said.

McGregor was fined $900 and placed on a good behaviour bond for 12 months.

Defence lawyer Alison Crouch said Puntoriero also intended to plead guilty. He will appear in court on July 14.