A 29 year old Tongan, Ola Folau, one of a gang of four, launched an unprovoked attack on two brothers resulting in the death of one of them, a notably healthy athlete.
The undisputed evidence is Folau rained a number of punches on the deceased, mostly while he was being held by another of his gang.
Justice Michael Robinson “accepted Folau’s genuine remorse” and sentenced him to six months home detention.
This is sheer madness. Anywhere else in the fast dwindling in number, still civilised nations, Folau would face a lengthy prison sentence. In many other countries he’d be executed.
I note Robinson’s legal background is recorded as specialising in insolvency, banking and financial services, and that he was only appointed to the bench two months ago.
One can only wonder whether the judge would accept “genuine remorse” as a reason for 6 months home detention had Folau been up on a financial crime, an improbable contingency mind you as judging by his photograph he appeared to be retarded.
Let’s hope the Police appeal this insanity.