A father has been charged after choking his 14-year-old daughter unconscious during a violent assault at their home in Canberra's south. The incident, described by police as "highly disturbing," occurred on the evening of March 15, 2025, at a residence in the suburb of Gordon.
Details of the Assault
According to court documents, the father, aged 47, became enraged after an argument with his daughter over her use of a mobile phone. He allegedly grabbed her by the throat and applied pressure until she lost consciousness. The girl's mother, who was present, intervened and called emergency services. Police and paramedics arrived to find the victim semi-conscious and with visible injuries to her neck.
The father was arrested at the scene and taken to the ACT Policing station in Belconnen. He was charged with one count of choking, suffocation, or strangulation, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years' imprisonment. He was also charged with common assault.
Court Proceedings
The father appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court on March 17, 2025, via video link. Magistrate Beth Campbell described the alleged assault as "extremely serious" and refused bail, citing the risk of further domestic violence and the need to protect the victim. The magistrate noted the daughter's age and the severity of the attack as key factors in the decision.
Defense lawyer Sarah Thompson argued for bail, stating her client had no prior criminal record and was the primary breadwinner for the family. However, the prosecution opposed bail, highlighting the father's alleged lack of remorse and the potential for witness interference. The case was adjourned to April 14, 2025, for further mention.
Impact on the Victim
The 14-year-old girl was treated at Canberra Hospital for bruising and swelling to her neck, as well as psychological trauma. She has since been released into the care of her mother, who has obtained an interim domestic violence order against the father. The victim's school has been notified, and counseling services have been arranged.
ACT Policing Detective Sergeant Mark Richardson said in a statement, "This is a deeply concerning case of domestic violence against a child. We are committed to holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring the safety of victims." He urged anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help through support services.
Community Reaction
The incident has shocked the local community in Gordon. Neighbors reported hearing raised voices and a commotion from the family home but did not realize the severity of the situation. One neighbor, who asked not to be named, said, "It's terrifying to think something like this could happen so close to home. We hope the girl gets the support she needs."
Domestic violence support groups have condemned the attack. Karen Willis, CEO of the ACT Domestic Violence Crisis Service, said, "Strangulation is a significant risk factor for homicide in domestic violence situations. It is critical that such cases are taken seriously by the courts." She added that the organization is providing support to the family.
Legal Context
Choking or strangulation became a specific criminal offense in the ACT in 2021, following a national push to address domestic violence. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, domestic violence-related assaults in the ACT increased by 12% in 2024, with strangulation offenses rising by 8%. The maximum penalty for choking was increased to 25 years in 2023 to reflect the seriousness of the offense.
Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how courts handle similar offenses involving minors. Dr. Emily Hart, a criminologist at the Australian National University, noted, "Cases where a parent is the perpetrator are particularly complex because of the power dynamics and the long-term impact on the child. The court's decision to deny bail sends a strong message."
Next Steps
The father remains in custody at the Alexander Maconochie Centre. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 14, 2025, where a plea is expected to be entered. The magistrate has ordered a pre-sentence report and a psychological assessment. The victim's mother has been granted full custody of the daughter pending further legal proceedings.
Police have not ruled out further charges, and the investigation is ongoing. The ACT Director of Public Prosecutions will review the case before the next hearing.
