Veteran attacks woman’s vehicle
A Lismore Heights army veteran has fronted court after jumping from his car and launching a frenzied road rage attack on another vehicle with a woman cowering inside.
Christopher John Martin, 41, pleaded guilty at Ballina Local Court on Thursday to intimidation and damaging property.
Agreed police facts tendered to the court state the victim was driving a black Mazda CX-5 along River St in Ballina when she noticed Martin driving a silver Hyundai Accent behind her in the right line about 4.10pm on August 4.
The woman put on the right indicator to merge right and Martin sped up closing in on the victim’s car, police facts state. While the victim was trying to merge, Martin beeped the horn at the woman and began tailgating the car.
When the victim stopped at a red light at the intersection of River St and Keer St, Martin hopped out of his car and approached the woman’s car.
“Martin began shouting at the woman and banging on the back windscreen with his fists in a hammering motion about four or five times,” police documents state.
“He then lifted his leg and repeatedly kicked the side panel, causing a dent.”
Martin returned to his car when the light went green and drove away.
“This interaction caused the victim to become distressed, intimidated and fearful for her safety,” police facts state.
The woman pulled over and dialled triple-0 and flagged officers down from inside her car when they came near.
The woman followed officers to Ballina Police Station and gave a statement. She provided them with a picture of Martin’s car so they could find him and is seeking compensation for the damage.
Officers went to the address the car was registered at and Martin told them he was involved in a car accident with the woman and she had refused to provide details.
Defence lawyer Yvette Holt said there was an incident leading up to the outburst when the woman’s lane ended and she came into his lane, pushing him onto a roundabout. Ms Holt said the second incident resulted in damage to Martin’s car on the driver’s side.
“When he tried to overtake she sped up a couple of times and he said the front left side of her car collided with his.”
Ms Holt said Martin had been diagnosed with ADHD, was under financial stress and had a limited capacity to pay a fine.
Magistrate Karen Stafford said she was concerned about the safety of the community and sentenced Martin to a twoyear community corrections order. A conviction was recorded.