Assault brings supervision term
A CHAMPION chilli eater has had to cool his hot temper after assaulting his stepfather on Christmas Day.
Stefan William Johnston (29) was sentenced to nine months’ supervision and the minimum 40 hours’ community work for common assault, in the Dunedin District Court yesterday.
The charge related to a family Christmas which turned sour last year, when Johnston was celebrating the holiday with his family in Green Island.
Johnston started drinking about 10am and an argument developed between him and his stepfather.
After this Johnston left, but at 8.30pm he went to his stepfather’s address.
Judge Jonathan Krebs said the defendant was ‘‘heavily intoxicated’’ and became aggressive towards occupants at the property.
He tried to punch the victim, but his attempted ‘‘blows to the head’’ missed.
Johnston then placed his hands around the victim’s neck and the pair fell to the floor.
In the process a large television fell on them, causing a cut to Johnston’s head.
The tussle related to an argument over the defendant’s missing property.
Counsel Jim Takas said since then Johnston had been getting help with his alcohol addiction.
He was also studying horticulture at Otago Polytechnic, focusing on growing chilli peppers.
This interest was sparked from his passion for entering chillipepper eating competitions.
Website League of Fire puts him 10th equal with four others in the world chillieating rankings.
‘‘I just thought that was kind of fun,’’ Mr Takas said.
Judge Krebs questioned whether he should be worried about Johnston studying horticulture, considering a previous conviction for growing cannabis.
The judge believed community work and supervision was sufficient as Johnston had apologised to his stepfather.
His bail conditions meant he could not be with his grandfather during his last days, which was a punishment in itself, he said.
Johnston’s stepfather wanted to celebrate next Christmas together with him, Judge Krebs said.
‘‘He wants you back in the family . . . he said nobody holds any grudges.’’