Victim "Cannot Forget Fear and Shock"
An Australian police officer who aimed a gun at a junior colleague attempting to deliver a so-called 'spoiler' about a movie was found guilty in court.
According to ABC News and others on the 9th (local time), Dominic Francis Gainer (30), who works at a police station in Sydney, aimed a gun at his junior Morgan Royston (26) last May.
The reason was the movie "Top Gun: Maverick." The night before the incident, Royston, who had watched the movie, offered to tell Gainer, who had not yet seen it, the plot. Gainer laughed and warned, "Don't spoil the movie."
After a colleague who was in the same room left, Gainer pulled out a pistol, cursing and saying, "I'll shoot you." According to court documents, Gainer aimed the firearm near Royston and remained still for five seconds. It was also reported that Gainer's hand was holding the grip, not the trigger. It was also recorded that Gainer was smiling at the time.
After this incident, Royston quit the police force and appealed to the court that he fell into depression. Royston said, "It is common for colleagues to joke and tease each other, but the fear and shock I felt will never be forgotten." He added, "Now, when I see police officers, I feel the need to check whether they have firearms in their hands."
Gainer's lawyer admitted to the charge of mishandling a firearm. However, he argued that there was no malicious intent to intimidate or threaten. Gainer's lawyer said, "He regrets his actions."
However, the court pointed out the 'power imbalance' between senior and junior colleagues and judged Gainer's actions to be guilty. The judge said, "Gainer made an unfortunate lapse in judgment," adding, "Police officers have the right to carry firearms, but it comes with tremendous responsibility."
The court ordered Gainer to undergo a community correction order for two years and to perform 100 hours of community service. A criminal record will also be kept.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
