In a terrifying incident captured on CCTV, a woman was forced to defend herself with a broom against an aggressive offender who was armed with a knife. The victim was backed-up against a wall with nowhere to escape, and the fear in her eyes was palpable as she begged the offender not to hurt her. A 23-year-old male night manager bravely intervened, trying to calm the offender down and offering a glass of water, while two young female staff members cowered in fear behind a cabinet. The offender eventually left in his damaged car and was later arrested at his home in Oran Park.
It was revealed in court that the offender, Al-Khafaji, was suffering from chronic schizophrenia and had not been taking his anti-psychotic medication for months. He had also been using cannabis daily, which likely contributed to his erratic behavior. In a disturbing phone call from prison, Al-Khafaji asked the victim if she was happy he had attacked her, believing it showed his seriousness about her. The victim later described feeling overwhelming anxiety and fear of being targeted, emphasizing that she should not be held responsible for the offender’s actions.
Al-Khafaji pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including using an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offense, damaging property, resisting a police officer, and violating an apprehended violence order. The judge emphasized that the victim should not bear any burden for the offender’s behavior, holding Al-Khafaji solely responsible for his actions and the repercussions that followed. Despite his plea, Al-Khafaji was sentenced to a significant period in custody and will only be eligible for parole in October 2025 due to time already served.
The judge remarked on the victim’s enduring trauma, stating that she had experienced a level of distress that no woman should ever have to endure. The CCTV footage provided a clear glimpse into the intense fear and panic of the victim as she desperately tried to protect herself from the armed offender. The male night manager’s bravery in attempting to defuse the situation was also noted, as he risked his own safety to intervene and prevent further harm to the victim and others present during the incident.
The court proceedings highlighted the vulnerability of individuals suffering from mental health disorders when they go untreated, underscoring the importance of proper medication and support. Al-Khafaji’s actions underscored the dangers posed by individuals in such situations, as his erratic behavior led to a harrowing experience for the victim and others involved. The judge’s sentencing reflected the severity of the offenses committed and aimed to hold Al-Khafaji accountable for the harm he caused, emphasizing the importance of ensuring justice and protection for victims of violent crimes.
