Bashed couple in fear

AN elderly couple are living in fear after a former neighbour broke into their Hollywell home and beat them severely because he had a fight with their son, a court heard.

Daniel B Dixon pleaded guilty in Southport District Court to two counts of assaulting a person over 60, and one count each of breaking and entering and wilful damage.

The court heard Dixon, 44, broke into the Hollywell home on the morning of December 14, 2016 with the intent of beating the couple.

Prosecutor Emma Bracken said the attack left Lynette and Wayne Schmidt in fear.

“They are unable to enjoy small leisures in their everyday home life and are living in fear,” Ms Bracken said, reading from a victim impact statement.

The court heard after entering the home via a sliding door, Dixon punched Mrs Schmidt, 74, four times in the head and demanded to know where her husband was.

Mr Schmidt, then came into the room and Dixon pushed him over and began to punch him repeatedly and threatened to kill him.

Dixon did not stop until a neighbour intervened after hearing Mrs Schmidt’s calls for help. As he left the home Dixon continued to threaten to kill Mr Schmidt.

Later that day, Dixon returned to the home, demanding entry and kicking the sliding door which he damaged.

Dixon now lives in Sydney. Defence barrister Sarah Thompson said Dixon had gotten into an altercation with the Schmidt’s son, Murray Schmidt, the day before.

No charges were laid as a result of that fight but Dixon was admitted to hospital after being knocked unconscious.

Ms Thompson produced four psychological reports to the court showing Dixon had anxiety and depression as well as alcohol and marijuana abuse problems.

Judge Catherine Muir asked for more information in regards to the psychological report relating to the likelihood Dixon might reoffend.

The matter was adjourned until June 7.