A father of one of the teenagers arrested for allegedly intimidating a schoolboy with a machete in a Melbourne fast-food restaurant is concerned about the lack of consequences his son might face. Four boys were apprehended after distressed footage surfaced showing a 15-year-old being threatened in a McDonald’s bathroom in Truganina. The video depicts two students in school uniforms menacing a third, while their companions recorded the disturbing act.
In the footage, one boy wielded a machete, threatening the victim to comply with demands, including being told to “get down” or face dire consequences. Fortunately, the two boys targeted in the incident did not suffer any physical injuries, as confirmed by police.
Among those arrested, one 15-year-old has been charged with various offences, including aggravated burglary, theft of a motor vehicle, false imprisonment, production of child abuse material, and assault with a weapon. This boy was released on bail, pending a court appearance, while another is expected to face charges later. Additionally, two more boys from Wyndham Vale were arrested and given cautions.
In a heartfelt statement, the father of one of the alleged offenders expressed his sorrow for the victim’s trauma and his own distress over his son’s actions, which contradict his upbringing. He lamented the perceived ineffectiveness of the juvenile justice system, revealing that police have indicated his son is unlikely to face significant repercussions.
He urged for a shift towards meaningful rehabilitation rather than mere detention, highlighting that placing his son in a correctional facility might only reinforce negative behaviours. The father called on decision-makers to create effective measures that address juvenile delinquency and support responsible parenting.
The Department of Education responded to the incident, stating it does not reflect the overall positive culture at the school or the behaviour of the majority of its students. They condemned any form of violence and assured that they cooperate with authorities to investigate such matters thoroughly, ensuring appropriate disciplinary measures are enacted.
This unsettling event has sparked discussions on accountability and the future of the involved youth, underlining the urgent need for a reformed approach to juvenile justice.