Payne Haas Sentenced for Intimidating Police In NSW Tweed Heads Local Court

 

It is reported that in January Brisbane Broncos star Payne Haas intimidated two police officers during a drunken foul-mouthed tirade on the streets of Tweed Heads, northern NSW.

The 22-year-old NSW Origin forward was also charged with using offensive language.

While the offensive language charge was withdrawn by the prosecution, Haas was sentenced after pleading guilty to the two charges of intimidating police.

According to the police facts, the court heard that on 16 January, as Haas was approached by 2 police officers at the Jack Evans Boat Harbour on Boundary St at about 10pm, he became aggressive towards police.

When approached by police he was requested for ID.

He is reported saying, “F%&k the ID, I don’t need to give you ID.”

“You got a badge on you and you think you’re a f*&king tough c%&t. You put my family in jail you c&%ts.”

“Don’t come near me bro, I’ll f*&king jab ya, on my mother’s life I will.”

“Get the f&*k out of here bro, get the f*&k out of my face or I’ll take all of you on myself you f&*kwits.”

When he turned his eyes at the other police officer, he said, “Why you looking at me like that? Cause you’re a woman? Cause you’re a woman and you think that I won’t touch ya?”

Haas was then immediately arrested for intimidating police.

When Haas appeared at the Tweed Heads Local Court last Thursday, he requested the court not to impose a criminal record against his name for both charges given his young age, and the fact that he will now be subjected to further punishment from the NRL.

Haas, in court expressed his remorse and regret for his actions. The court heard that “He’s learned his lesson, he’s been completely shattered because of this.”

The court was also told that the events leading up to this incident was largely contributed by the death of his brother last year, and his struggle with the grief.

Local Court Magistrate Geoff Dunlevy sentenced Haas without a criminal record under a Conditional Release Order non conviction. He is placed on a two year good behaviour bond period.

Following the sentence, Haas has said, “I have gone to see the police officers involved and offered them a full apology for my conduct, as well as pending time with police going through what I did.”

“I had been drinking and the words I used and the way I acted were totally unacceptable. I’d like to thank the police for taking the time to see me, and accepting my apology.”

“I did the wrong thing and let myself down as well as my family and the Club- but most importantly, I acted in a way that showed disrespect to the police, and I am really sorry for that…. I will learn from this incident and I will be a better person in the future.”

The offence of intimidating police, or assaulting police where no actual bodily harm results carries up to 5-years imprisonment in NSW, according to section 60(1) of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).

About Jimmy Singh

Mr. Jimmy Singh is the Principal Lawyer at Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia - Leading Criminal Lawyers in Sydney, Delivering Exceptional Results in all Australian Criminal Courts.

Related articles

See all articles

Strip Search Laws: Your Rights at Music Festivals in New South Wales

Jimmy Singh 6th December 2023

Coward Punch: Sucker Punch Laws in Australia

Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia 4th December 2023

Is Euthanasia Legal in Australia?

Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia 29th November 2023

What is the Youth Koori Court?

Poppy Morandin 29th November 2023

FEATURED ON:

  What Our Clients Say

I was represented by Emerson Lamarre from CDLA for driving offences and possession of weapon charges which he got all chargers dropped for me. I could not have asked for… (read full review) By B.F. from Sydney on 22/11/2023
I am incredibly grateful to Alex and Emerson, who provided exceptional representation in my recent court case. Their extensive expertise and strategic approach gave me the best result in court.… (read full review) By J.C. from Sydney on 27/11/2023
Ibrahim and Emerson were amazing as my lawyers for court. They were professional, knowledgeable, and provided excellent support throughout my whole case. They went above and beyond to make sure… (read full review) By E.A. from Sydney on 24/11/2023
Nothing but 5 star service and professionalism from Sean of CDLA. He is empathetic and sincere and experienced in the criminal justice system. My case was won all because of… (read full review) By M.A. from Sydney on 24/11/2023
I hired Emerson from Criminal Defence Lawyers Australia for my case. I am satisfied with the decision and now I am free from the criminal record. Thank you for your… (read full review) By Y.K. from Sydney on 23/10/2023

Free Conference Booking Form

Follow Us