A Kalinga father suffered severe injuries, including brain trauma and grated feet, after being dragged by his car as teenage thieves sped away, resulting in one of the teens receiving an 18-month probation sentence.
The incident occurred on 11 May last year at the Charlton family home in Kalinga, a suburb in Brisbane’s inner north.
Benjamin Charlton, a local veterinarian, attempted to stop the theft of his Toyota Prado but was dragged along the road, sustaining significant injuries. The impact resulted in a brain injury, requiring extensive medical attention, and severe damage to his feet. Mr Charlton described the horrifying moment he looked down and struggled to recognise his own bloodied and damaged feet.
He also recounted the fear and uncertainty his family faced as doctors assessed his brain injury, which included bleeding. Doctors warned of potential surgery if the bleeding did not subside. Mr. Charlton now faces a lifelong increased risk of seizures and potential permanent vision impairment. His wife, Megan Charlton, found him unconscious and bleeding on the road, fearing the teens would return. She attempted to move him to safety.
One of the teenagers involved pleaded guilty to robbery in company, unauthorised use of a motor vehicle, and assault occasioning bodily harm. The Childrens Court in Brisbane sentenced the teen to 18 months of probation. Judge Ian Dearden ordered the teen to participate in restorative justice, which involves meeting with Mr. Charlton.
The teen had already spent 10 months in juvenile detention on remand. The court also heard that the teenager had committed a separate assault in April, a month before the Kalinga incident, attacking another victim on a city bridge. The stolen vehicle was later stopped by police using road spikes after reaching speeds of over 150km/h through Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The teen is expected to appear in Ipswich Children’s Court on 1 April to plead guilty to unrelated charges.
Mr Charlton expressed his ongoing anger and sadness, stating that while the teenagers involved can move on with their lives, he faces lifelong consequences. He conveyed the emotional trauma of the incident, recalling the fear he and his family experienced. He hoped that the teen would receive help to avoid reoffending.
Mr Charlton explained that the decision to pursue restorative justice rather than a harsher sentence, was made with the hope of rehabilitation. He stated that the emotional and physical scars he sustained may never fully heal.
The incident has caused concern within the Kalinga community, highlighting the issue of youth crime in the area. Residents sympathised with the Charlton family and requested increased measures to prevent similar incidents. The community has rallied around the family, offering support and assistance during their recovery.
Published Date 19-March-2025
