A West Australian man is expected to face Perth Magistrates Court today (5 November, 2024) charged with allegedly assaulting a public official and disorderly behaviour.
The AFP charged the man, 50, over an incident at Perth International Airport on 14 October, 2024.
The AFP was called to the airport about 10pm after the man was allegedly intoxicated and belligerent in the terminal. He allegedly became increasingly aggressive towards Australian Border Force (ABF) and AFP officers and then allegedly assaulted an AFP officer. The AFP officer did not need medical treatment.
The Bunbury man was arrested and allegedly continued to swear in front of other travellers while being escorted from the terminal.
He has been charged with:
- One count of assaulting a public official, contrary to section 318 of the Criminal Code Act 1913 (WA). The maximum penalty for this offence is three years' imprisonment; and
- One count of disorderly behaviour in a public place, contrary to section 74A of the Criminal Code Act 1913 (WA). The maximum penalty for this offence is a $6000 infringement.
AFP Detective acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said the AFP was committed to supporting airport staff and ensuring all travellers experienced a safe journey from their departure through to their arrival at their destinations.
"The AFP and our partners have no tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour and we will take action," Det a/Supt Brindal said.
"Passengers, especially those travelling with children, expect to feel safe and should not have to witness intoxication, violence or bad behaviour."
If you require a police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information, please call the AFP's Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
