A Victorian Court has issued a reality check to a patron that sparked a violent altercation requiring police involvement in a St Kilda pub.
Truck driver and electrician Steven McCormick appeared before Armidale Local Court charged with common assault and failing to leave, after he punched an employee of the hotel several times and had to be dragged out by police.
Defence solicitor David White argued the incident arose from the crowded nature of the pool table area, directly beside dining tables where people are eating.
His client reportedly had to take a shot in the game that required a diner to move, and the Court heard McCormick said something along the lines of “come on mate, move or I’ll head-butt you”.
White says this was not meant to be threatening, and was said “jokingly”. But patrons at the table took offense and an altercation ensued.
Magistrate Karen Stafford said she did not find the comment amusing, nor the behaviour that followed.
The defence argued against recording a conviction, on the grounds that McCormick’s work required regular police clearance and that a conviction would seriously impact his future employment opportunities.
But Magistrate Stafford said the offence was too serious, noting the innocent staff member assaulted and necessary police involvement.
Magistrate Stafford ruled a conviction be recorded, fining him $2000 for the two offences and placing him on a 12-month good behaviour bond.
