SHOCKING PIZZA ASSAULT VIDEO
WHY HE WAS JAILED
CHILLING footage of the moment a man pointed a shortened firearm in the face of a Smithfield Domino’s staff member has been released.
Philip Raymond Willich’s actions have resulted in a three year jail sentence.
But he will be released on parole after one year. He could have been jailed for up to seven years under Queensland law.
Willich became angry when he couldn’t get a discount while ordering his pizza on the phone.
So he went to the shop to confront staff member Isaac Ramsay and asked him to step outside for a chat.
They are seen speaking for a few minutes on CCTV footage that was played in Cairns Magistrates Court.
Police Prosecutor Senior Sergeant Lisa Buchanan said Willich, 53, had wanted an apology.
When it wasn’t forthcoming Willich drew the gun, which had been concealed under his clothes, and pointed it the young man’s head.
“It is the most serious common assault I have seen to obtain an apology for not getting a discount on a takeaway pizza,” Sen-Sgt Buchanan said.
“It wasn’t loaded but the victim wasn’t aware of that.”
Sen-Sgt Buchanan said Mr Ramsay was effectively “begging for his life”.
Willich pleaded guilty to charges of common assault, deprivation of liberty and possessing a shortened firearm in a public place, as well as unrelated drug charges.
The court was told Mr Ramsay had not been able to return to work, had nightmares, paranoia and was diagnosed with post traumatic distress disorder.
The court was told that Willich had narcissistic personality traits, high alcoholism and a depressive disorder.
Defence solicitor Paul Richardson argued Willich should be released after 12 months.
“(He) committed the assault in the most menacing and frightening way,” Magistrate Alan Comans said.
“The victim was at one point made to kneel with the firearm at his head.
“People must be able to go about their business, especially when customer satisfaction and dissatisfaction is a part of their daily lives ... without the risk of this type of assault.”