Nov 20

Boy, 11, in court over bashing

A COURT has been told that an 11-year-old boy and a 16-year-old youth accused of bashing an off-duty police officer and his girlfriend had “no regard for human life”.

The 27-year-old officer and his 26-year-old girlfriend were walking in Coolangatta early on Saturday when about 20 youths began kicking and punching them, police allege.

The officer was allegedly beaten to the ground before having his head stomped on and his wallet stolen. His girlfriend was also hurt.

An 11-year-old boy, who cannot be named, from West Tweed Heads, NSW, appeared in Southport Children’s Court today charged with robbery with violence in company, assault occasioning bodily harm in company, affray and possession of a utensil.

He was bailed on strict conditions.

A 16-year-old youth from Banora Point was charged with robbery with violence while in company, assault occasioning bodily harm and affray.

He was remanded in custody tonight while magistrate Graeme Lee considers whether to grant bail.

Neither was required to enter a plea.

Five co-accused are expected to be extradited from NSW to Queensland today or tomorrow.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Myee Arandale told the court the police officer was kicked so hard in the head by the 16-year-old that it moved the fence he was up against.

“They set upon these two people with no regard whatsoever for human life,” Sen-Const Arandale told the court.

Mr Lee told the court he was astounded how a child as young as 11 could be on the street after midnight.

“What amazes me is that these young people are out there at 12.50 in the morning,” Mr Lee said.
“What are their parents doing to keep them in?”

A committal hearing has been set for February 18.