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NZ one-punch accused bailed by Qld court
A New Zealand man has been granted bail after allegedly striking a man on the Gold Coast, leaving him with brain damage.
August 7, 2019
A New Zealand teen accused of leaving a man with brain damage after a late-night one-punch attack on the Gold Coast has been granted bail.
Amerika Uili, 19, allegedly struck Liam McNeilly, 34, during an unprovoked incident near the Hilton Hotel while he was holidaying in Surfers Paradise in June.
Justice Peter Davis said CCTV footage captured Uili allegedly assaulting another man before punching Mr McNeilly.
“(He) has fallen, hit his head and is now suffering brain damage,” Justice Davis said on Wednesday in the Brisbane Supreme Court.
The court heard Uili is charged with grievous bodily harm for the alleged attack on Mr McNeilly and common assault for the alleged altercation with the second victim.
“It’s a terrible, sad event for the victim and that can’t be underestimated, and (Uili) may be facing a significant period of imprisonment,” Justice Davis said.
Despite this and prosecution fears that Uili was a flight risk, Justice Davis granted the teenager bail so he could return to his family, who live in Victoria.
He will be required to report to police three days and week and will undergo drug and alcohol testing.