A university student's parting shot at a Bondi Junction police officer has reignited debate over what constitutes offensive language.
Science student Henry Grech, 22, had an offensive language charge against him reportedly cleared in Waverley Local Court yesterday after NSW magistrate Robbie Williams decided the word "prick" would not offend a "reasonable person".
The decision has been slammed by the police union and media commentators, who criticised Mr Williams for not defending police officers working at the coalface of the criminal justice system.
I believe that magistrate Robbie William’s clearing of all charges against Mr Grech may not have been the appropriate decision. I don’t believe he should have been given a harsh sentence, but a fine or a short stint of community service may have sent the right message to both Mr Grech and the rest of society. It is important for the magistrates and judges to make it clear that acting inappropriately towards police officers is not on, as this maintains a level of respect for the officers and deters individuals from engaging in such behaviour.
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