Daily London
Police say Tim Picton was assaulted in the early hours of yesterday morning, allegedly knocked unconscious by a stranger in Northbridge and hit his head on the pavement along James Street.
The 36-year-old was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital and is now in an induced coma.
Police prosecutors say there’s a high chance he’ll have a life-long disability.
His alleged attacker, 20-year-old Brodie Jake Dewar, was charged with grievous bodily harm today and released on bail. He was supported by family.
Dewar’s lawyer told the court Picton was harassing his cousin and he’d asked him to leave her alone multiple times.
Picton is a former Labor State Secretary and now works as a director at mining giant MinRes.
He’s also the brother of Chris Picton, South Australia’s Health Minister.
“Tim is a much loved father, husband, brother and son, as well as a friend to so many across Australia,” the Picton family said in a statement today.
“We are focused entirely on being with him and supporting one another.”
They also thanked the emergency workers who helped.
WA Premier Roger Cook posted online, saying the whole Labor team are thinking of him.
With New Year’s Eve celebrations around the corner, police are warning against violent behaviour, saying split second decisions can have devastating consequences.
“The community is absolutely tired of seeing this level of violence,” WA Police Assistant Commissioner Martin Haime said.
“It’s completely unacceptable. This time of year should be about celebration and enjoyment, not fear of harm.”
