A 14-year-old boy was brutally attacked from behind, collapsing face-first onto the ground, resulting in serious injuries, including bleeding on the brain and requiring metal plates and screws in his jaw. His attacker, only 15 years old, received a six-month suspended sentence, which the victim’s father condemned as a mere “slap on the wrist.” Outside the court, he expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s really a slap in the face of everybody.”
The victim lay motionless for 20 seconds after the assault, before attempting to stand, as bystanders looked on and some pursued the attacker. Just three weeks prior, this same adolescent had confronted the victim in a school bathroom over a vape, which led to a brief suspension. In total, the attacker had been suspended from Aveley Secondary College 11 times, primarily for intimidation and physical assaults against fellow students.
The court heard that despite being scared when the victim fell, the attacker showed remorse. However, the impact of the event on the victim’s family was devastating, with the father revealing that the stress led him to contemplate suicide. He articulated the emotional toll, emphasising, “The devastation to our families is just as real… we’ve just copped a slap in the face and no justice.”
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding youth violence and justice responses within the community, with many still questioning whether the punishment truly conveys the necessary message. In emergencies, assistance should be sought immediately by dialling Triple Zero (000).