Man accused of attacking two boys had 40 police 'interactions', court hears
Prosecutors said those interactions included a string of incidents in which the man was accused of assaulting young children and threatening staff at a primary school.
An 18-year-old man accused of attacking two young children at a Canberra shopping centre has been charged with common assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, according to prosecutors. The incident occurred at the Belconnen Mall, where the man allegedly approached two boys, aged two and four, knocked them over, and kicked one of them.
One of the injured boys was taken to the hospital for treatment. The man, who has a serious intellectual impairment, has had 40 interactions with police in the past two years, including multiple incidents of alleged assault and threats against children and staff at a primary school. His bail application was adjourned to allow the court to consider evidence regarding his parents' ability to supervise him and ensure he remains under appropriate control.
Legal aid lawyer Gillian Bilton argued that if released, her client could comply with conditions such as avoiding areas with children while a review of his National Disability Insurance Scheme arrangements is completed. However, prosecutor James Melloy contended that the community's safety must be prioritized, as the man's behavior poses a significant risk, and he has been involved in numerous incidents requiring police intervention.
The court is considering whether home detention would be a viable option, but Special Magistrate Sean Richter noted that such an arrangement would present challenges for carers attempting to restrain the defendant.
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