Australian judge slaps Jerseyman with $2k fine over “thuggish” brawl

Wednesday 19 June 2019

A “privileged” Jersey traveller has been slapped with a $2,000 fine by an Australian magistrate for knocking a man out during a “wild, thuggish brawl” in the heart of Sydney, ahead of the country's national day of remembrance.

James Murphy also received a two-year community corrections order during his sentencing at Downing Centre Local Court yesterday at 09:30, the Australian Telegraph reported.

It came amid a five-man brawl involving two other Jerseymen, that took place outside the iconic Coca-Cola sign in the city’s red light district, Kings Cross, shortly before the dawn Anzac Day service on 25 April.

Video: A live report about the fight from 9 News.

Likened by the magistrate to “cavemen beating each other up”, the act of “juvenile, puerile, reckless brutality” was caught on camera by a laughing bystander.

The video, which was broadcast on various national news networks, showed various punches being thrown in multiple directions during the clash, while the filmer encourages and goads the fighters.

But those comments turned to concern and calls for an ambulance after one of the men was knocked out from behind and kicked in the head while he lay on the ground.

All of the men involved – three Jerseymen and two other Brits – were immediately served with a ban from the Central Business District’s entertainment precinct and charged with affray.

Pictured: Downing Centre Court, Sydney. (J Bar/Wiki)

All were given bail except Christopher Ware, from Jersey, who appeared at Parramatta Bail Court in April.

He was knocked unconscious during the fight. When he came round, he apparently retaliated by attacking a 19-year-old, who was already lying motionless on the floor.

He pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity and was fined $1,000 for his involvement.

Former Highlands student James Murphy (27) then followed, admitting to using “illegal violence” before Deputy Registrar Hoffman at Sydney Downing Centre Court in May.

Video: A report by 7News on a court appearance by those involved, including Murphy. 

Yesterday, he received his sentence – a $2,000 fine and a two-year community corrections order.

Liam Beckford (30) – also from Jersey – was reported to have denied attacking two individuals and is due back in court on 2 July.