A COCKATOO man smoking under a footbridge on the Frankston foreshore received a fractured cheekbone and other facial injuries when he was set upon by four men, 10.10pm, Sunday 28 January.
Detective Senior Constable Mark Garrett, of Frankston CIU, said the man, 41, and a mate were approached by a man who asked for a cigarette. When he refused the man walked away but another man – one of four – approached and said the refusal had caused offence. This prompted all the men to attack the man who was allegedly punched several times in the head before managing to run away and seek help. He was taken by ambulance to The Alfred hospital for treatment.
A 17-year-old male was charged with assault over the incident and remanded to a children’s court at a later date. He is alleged to have been involved in at least seven drunken assaults and robberies, several on Frankston foreshore on Australia Day, in which frightened youngsters were threatened with violence if they refused to hand over wallets and phones.
Detective Senior Constable Shane Smith, of Frankston CIU, said most of the robberies were “senseless” as only one of five stolen phones was kept by the thieves and one was thrown into Kananook Creek. He said it was also distressing for parents to see their children frightened.
Three others with the 17-year-old are of Pacific Islander appearance.
Detective Garrett said CCTV showed many people out on the beach at the entrance to the creek on the hot night. He is appealing for anyone with information to contact him at Frankston CIU 9784 5529 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.