Fined $2000 for nightclub assault

John James Cavalli from Port Kennedy pleaded guilty in Rockingham Magistrates Court to common assault.

The court was told Cavalli and his victim had engaged in a verbal stoush earlier in the night before the fracas escalated about 12.30am on March 15.

Cavalli proceeded to punch the victim three times to the head.

The victim received treatment to swelling and bruising to his eyes at Rockingham General Hospital.

Duty lawyer Justin Geoghegan for Cavalli said the attack was out of character.

‘They have known each other for 10 years and things were said earlier in the evening,’ he said.

‘But he should have walked away and he reacted poorly.

‘He feels remorseful.’

Police prosecutor Brian Sutherland said assault was a serious indiscretion.

‘He did not hit him just once, but twice and three times,’ he said.

Magistrate Susan Richardson described Cavalli’s actions as concerning behaviour.

‘This is totally unacceptable and we are seeing this type of behaviour often in nightclubs and pubs,’ she said.

In her verdict, Magistrate Richardson took into account Cavalli’s early plea, clean record and his age.

He was also ordered to pay $450 compensation to the victim and $147 in court costs.