A teenager who previously assaulted soccer star Danny Hodgson, causing a life-changing brain injury, has been arrested once again. The incident occurred when the now 19-year-old allegedly assaulted a woman while attempting to steal from a bottle shop in Geraldton.
The boy was previously sentenced to three years and eight months behind bars for the attack on Hodgson, as well as several other charges including assaults and robberies. Despite spending just over a year in detention, the teenager allegedly participated in a riot while incarcerated, resulting in additional charges.
However, the teenager was released in May of this year and was arrested again months later for the attempted theft of alcohol. During the incident, he allegedly punched a female worker in the face when she tried to intervene.
Despite objections from the police, the teenager was released on bail. The WA Attorney-General, John Quigley, expressed his disappointment with the court’s decision and highlighted the teenager’s previous criminal involvement and violent behavior.
Quigley emphasized that the teenager should not be viewed as a child, but rather as a hardened criminal. This arrest serves as evidence of the potential dangers that can arise when those with a history of violent behavior are released back into society.
The incident raises questions about the government’s approach to incarcerating youthful offenders, as some individuals argue that they are being too harsh. However, cases like this highlight the importance of considering public safety and the potential risk posed by repeat offenders.
It is crucial for the justice system to strike a balance between rehabilitation and protecting society from those who continue to engage in criminal behavior.