A MAN who king-hit a victim at the Black Swan pub almost four years ago, has finally been convicted for the unprovoked attack.
Christopher Gray, 30, was charged with the assault, which took place on March 7, 2009, within a month of it happening, but was unable to be contacted by police since moving to Werribee.
Gray, who pleaded guilty in court this week, had been asked in the past to attend the Werribee police station regarding the matter but failed to do so.
Magistrate Bruce Cottrill said he was not sure if the long delay was a result of “poor policing or Gray not making contact with the right authorities” but said it was important to send a message that violence was not tolerated, despite the prolonged case.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Alan Walker told the court that on March 7, 2009, Gray approached a man at the Black Swan and punched him to the mouth.
The victim was knocked to the ground and lost one tooth. Gray had a bruised knuckle as a result of the incident.
When interviewed by police, Gray made admissions to the crime but later told them: “I can’t remember what happened because my girlfriend had given me an unknown pill”.
Defence counsel Julian Teh said the accused was not avoiding police, had attended all appointments and his address was known to police at all times.
“His recollection of the events is hazy at best but there has been no denial of the act,” Mr Teh said.
Gray has not been charged with any crimes since the 2009 assault but had prior convictions before this date.
Mr Cottrill said people could not get away with king-hitting victims for no reason.
“You seemed to have a propensity for violence at the time and this will not be tolerated,” he said.
Gray was convicted and fined $3000 plus costs.