Flatmates terrified in attack

A MAN forced his way into a Gold Coast home before demanding to see a friend before pushing a woman to the ground and threatening to hit her.

Paea Langiotu Talakai threatened two Ashmore women in their own home while he looked for a former flatmate who had moved out weeks prior.

Talakai, 29, pleaded guilty in the Southport District Court yesterday to entering a dwelling with intent and common assault.

Crown prosecutor Gary Churchill said Talakai and two other men went the Ashmore home to find an acquaintance.

The two women who lived in the home told them the man had moved out.

Despite this, Talakai pushed his way inside and asked what room the former flatmate lived in.

“He was told he was not there and the man did not live there anymore,” Mr Churchill said. “The women threatened to call police.”

Talakai grabbed one of the women by the shoulders and pushed her to the ground before standing over her. When she and the other woman pushed back and asked him to leave, Talakai raised his hand and threatened to slap them.

“It would have no doubt been disturbing for two female complainants to be accosted by three men in their home,” Mr Churchill said.

“Particularly by a man the size of this defendant.”

Talakai is about 195cm tall with broad shoulders.

Judge Katherine McGinness sentenced him to 15 months prison with immediate parole release.

Defence barrister James Godbolt, instructed by Fisher Dore Lawyers, said Talakai had worked as a labourer and security guard.