Magistrate releases 'brawling mall rats' video, concerned for public safety
A fed-up Geelong magistrate has blamed an increase in brawling “mall rats” as the reason the public no longer feel safe in the CBD.
The magistrate released vision of a violent and vicious brawl that erupted in Geelong Mall in early February this year.
In the confronting vision teens can be seen repeatedly punching, kicking and slapping each other as stunned bystanders helplessly watch on.
CCTV footage shows the fight beginning on the pavement, initially involving a handful of people, however as the brawl gains momentum it eventually descends into a free-for-all fight.
Perhaps most disturbing is the fact that the brutal incident occurred in broad daylight.
Four 18-year-olds fronted court over affray charges over the brutal attack. In an ongoing investigation police have now charged nine people over the brawl, the Geelong Advertiser reports.
Magistrate Michael Coghlan says it’s an area that he actively avoids walking through during the day because it’s become too dangerous.
