Darren Tasman Haas sentenced for beating up his friend in the Supreme Court in Hobart

‘Shocked and disappointed’ are the words a man used after being punched in the face about six times by his long-time friend.

Supreme Court of Tasmania, Salamanca Place, Hobart, Tasmania. Picture: Richard Jupe

A man who beat up his friend after an argument over religion has avoided prison.

Darren Tasman Haas was sentenced to six months jail, which was wholly suspended on the condition that he does not commit another offence punishable by imprisonment for the next year and a half.

Haas had previously pleaded guilty to one count of assault in relation to the violent incident on May 21, 2022.

His friend Paul Lucock and his wife visited Haas and his spouse at their house to watch football and drink alcohol.

The pair had known each other for 20 years but had not seen each other for an extended period before that evening.

Acting Justice David Porter. Picture: Supplied

At about 1.30am, the two men argued about religion before “playfully” wrestling each other.

However, as the wrestling became more aggressive, Mr Lucock said he wanted to stop and walked a short distance from the house.

Haas then followed him, and the pair resumed wrestling each other outside.

Mr Lucock hit his head on the ground and lost consciousness.

Haas then sat on him and punched him on the head about six times.

Mr Lucock left and then called the police, which led to the arrest of Haas.

Acting Supreme Court Justice David Porter said that Mr Lucock’s injuries were severe.

“Mr Lucock was treated at the hospital, and he was found to be suffering an inferior orbital floor fracture and a herniated inferior rectus muscle,” Justice Porter said.

“He continues to complain of pain and generalised double vision.

“There is a current referral for corrective surgery, although no indication at present that such surgery will be required.”

Justice Porter said the incident had heavily impacted Mr Lucock.

“In his victim impact statement, he describes being disappointed and shocked about what happened, having been friends for many years.

“He says he previously suffered from anxiety for which he took medication, and this incident has exacerbated his anxiety and caused panic attacks.

“He has been unemployed but has made attempts to complete higher education diplomas but feels his coping skills have been adversely affected because he cannot concentrate and has sleeping problems and migraines.”

During sentencing, Justice Porter said Haas had taken steps to take responsibility for his behaviour.

“The defendant reported to the probation officer that alcohol was a main contributor to this offending.

“Since the time of the offence, he has ceased all alcohol use and explained that he has become a better husband and father without it.

“He expressed regret and remorse for his offending and says that he is embarrassed by his conduct.”