A man who spat on Lismore ‘identity’ Big Rob during the 2016 Federal election campaign has been placed on a good behaviour bond.
Ron Cahill appeared at Lismore Local Court on Monday facing charges of common assault, and behaving in an offensive manner in a public place, in relation to an incident during pre-polling for the seat of Page.
On June 27, Mr Cahill was volunteering for Labor candidate Janelle Saffin at the pre-polling booth on Molesworth Street, Lismore
Police facts before the court revealed kebab shop owner, Mr Rob, formerly known as Robert Bou Hamdan, was videoing at the booth in his role as a ‘civilian reporter’.
The court heard altercation developed between the pair and Mr Cahill threw a piece of cardboard and plastic at Mr Rob, which hit him on the leg and fell to the ground.
After repeated requests by Mr Rob to pick up the object, Mr Cahill spat at Mr Rob, landing on his foot.
When Mr Rob reported the incident to police, he and a witness provided statements and video footage of the altercation.
Mr Rob did not appear in court to witness proceedings.
Mr Cahill’s solicitor Binnie O’Dwyer then told police her client refused to be interviewed.
At court Ms O’Dwyer said Mr Cahill, 73, who pleaded guilty to both charges, was well regarded in the community and had no prior criminal record.
Lismore Mayor Isaac Smith provided Mr Cahill with a reference, testifying to his good character and community service.
In sentencing Mr Cahill to an 18-month good behaviour bond with no conviction recorded, Magistrate Michael Dakin said ‘spitting on someone is inexcusable.’
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