JS was charged with “Stalk/Intimidate”, contrary to section 13(1) Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act. This offence carries a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment.
The charge related to an incident where JS engaged in a verbal altercation with a parking ranger where he threatened and intimidated the ranger after the ranger issued him an infringement notice for an expired loading zone ticket.
On the day of the Hearing, Chris Cole successfully negotiated a plea offer with the Prosecution reducing the charge to ‘Common Assault’, which only carries a maximum penalty of 2 years. Chris also proposed facts on sentence which were accepted by the Prosecution.
Ultimately, the Presiding Magistrate imposed a Conditional Release Order (with conviction) for 12 months. This is an impressive result considering that JS had convictions and had recently served time in custody for similar offences.