Dayne Brajkovich, a member of the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang, has pleaded guilty to having an offensive tattoo after appearing in a Perth court with senior club figure Troy Mercanti by his side.
Court Appearance and Guilty Plea
The 29-year-old faced Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday where he admitted to having a tattoo deemed offensive under Western Australia's criminal code. The court heard that Brajkovich has a large swastika tattoo on his leg, which prompted the criminal charge.
Brajan Brajkovich, who also goes by the name Dayne, appeared alongside Troy Mercanti, a high-ranking member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club. Mercanti's presence in the courtroom demonstrated the club's support for their fellow member during the legal proceedings.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Prosecutor Sean Dworcan informed the court that while the offence was serious, the prosecution would not be seeking a prison term in this case. Defence lawyer Michael Clarke represented Brajkovich during the hearing and requested a pre-sentence report to assist with sentencing.
Magistrate Matthew Walton agreed to the request and ordered the preparation of the report. The case has been adjourned until December 18 when Brajkovich will return to court for sentencing.
Under Western Australia's criminal code, having an offensive tattoo is considered a criminal offence. The law specifically prohibits tattoos that are threatening, abusive, insulting, or offensive in nature.
Mongols Motorcycle Club Context
The Mongols Motorcycle Club has been the subject of increased police attention in Western Australia. Troy Mercanti, who appeared in court supporting Brajkovich, is one of the most prominent figures in the club's Australian chapters.
The case comes amid ongoing tensions between outlaw motorcycle gangs and law enforcement in Western Australia. Police have been actively targeting illegal activities connected to motorcycle clubs operating in the state.
The swastika tattoo offence represents one of the broader legal challenges facing motorcycle club members in Australia, where authorities have been using various laws to target gang-related activities and symbols.
