Amputee walks free

Judge praises teen’s desire to rehabilitate

A YOUNG amputee won’t let the loss of one-and-a-half feet slow his drive to get on the straight and narrow.

Cairns District Court this week heard the youth, 17, endured the amputation of one foot and the partial removal the other due to an early childhood infection.

“When he was 10 years of age he developed (an infection) due to lack of parental intervention, who did not follow medical advice,” defending barrister Rachelle Logan said.

“These are significant medical problems for such a young man.”

Ms Logan said her client was determined to seek work, particularly physical labouring.

The youth appeared in court and pleaded guilty to attempted robbery with violence, committed with his 24year-old uncle in May.

The court heard the juvenile watched as his uncle kicked and punched their victim and was too drunk to be interviewed by police.

“He got into a spot of trouble while he was drinking,” Ms Logan said.

“This particular conduct was explained by his high level of inebriation … his consumption of alcohol would effect his impulse control.

“He was significantly influenced by the older man’s conduct.”

She told the court that despite his disability, the youth was keen to get into the workforce.

Judge David Reid said the youth came from “tragic circumstances” and praised his drive to rehabilitate through practical work.

“The object of engaging with full-time work is an excellent one,” Judge Logan said.

He said young Aboriginals were “45 times more likely” to serve multiple prison terms if they remained unemployed.

“(But) the problem with your leg will be significant,” Judge Reid said.

“When you are young, you think you can move mountains, but when you are older, you realise doing a lot of physical work can take its toll on your body.”

He released the juvenile on six months’ probation.

“I know you want to have a go at physical work,” Judge Reid said.

“If you can get with a larger company there may be opportunities for you.”