A man charged with damaging a store security camera, had the matter dealt with without a criminal conviction being recorded - but the "foolish, baffling" nature of the offence didn't compare to the "disgraceful" domestic violence before court that day, according to the magistrate.
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The defendant pleaded guilty in Mudgee Local Court and due to his lack criminal antecedence and because he was paying for the damage, it was considered appropriate that no conviction be entered.
Upon reading the police facts submitted to the court, Magistrate David Day asked the man's solicitor, Richard Wise, "why do people do these things?"
To which he replied, "reasons unknown". His honour continued, "well that's it, the great unknown".
Magistrate Day said "taking a swipe at a camera" was "baffling", but it wasn't the most frustrating part of that day's proceedings.
"Young and foolish, but at least you're not here for domestic violence," he said.
As is his usual practice, Magistrate Day separates domestic violence matters from the remainder of the list to be dealt with as a block. However, this created a disproportionate effect that drew his ire.
"We've got two lists today, one tiny one of non-domestic violence and a huge one of domestic violence - it's a disgrace," he said.
The amount of domestic violence offences listed in Mudgee Local Court, is a frequent mark of his honour's scorn.
- If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for advice or support, this free, confidential service is open 24/7. In an emergency, call the police on 000, all incidents of violence should be reported. For urgent support call Lifeline 13 11 14.
