Victim is jeered as trio jailed
April 5, 2007

TWO violent serial offenders who bashed an Oakdowns man in a frenzied attack may be locked up indefinitely.

The bashing left Marco Samuokovic, 34, unconscious and lying in a pool of his own blood. Part of his brain leaked out. The assault, part of a long-standing family feud, has given him a serious brain injury.

The prosecution has applied for the two men to be classed as dangerous criminals -- because of their violent pasts -- which could see them behind bars for life.

There was a high police presence yesterday as the victim's family and his attackers' supporters gathered in the court room for the sentencing. Chief Justice Peter Underwood gave Dean Phillip Braslin, 23, of Gagebrook, four years' jail without parole.

Jason Peter Mabb, 34, of Rokeby, was given a non-parole period of 3 years.A third man involved, Barry William Braslin, 21, of Warrane, was given a 21-month non-parole term. After sentencing, the prisoners' families and friends jeered at Mr Samuokovic. "They'll be out soon," one woman yelled.

Taunts were replaced with waves and catcalls as the prisoners were driven away to Risdon. " I love you," one called. " I'll have a drink on youse tonight." The three men bashed on the prison van doors and whistled in response.

The judge said it was a very violent attack that resulted in serious injury. " There is no rational explanation for this violent and frenzied attack which nearly caused a death," he said.

Dean Braslin grinned as the judge said he had committed his first violent offence at age 12. " Since then he has been convicted of 12 crimes or offences of violence," he said. He noted Mabb had an "appalling record for crimes of violence" too. "Sentence must mark society's condemnation of irrational violence of this kind," he said.

The three had pleaded guilty mid-way through their trial to causing grievous bodily harm. The attack happened last June when they set upon Mr Samuokovic with blocks of wood until his brain leaked.

The dangerous criminal application will be heard at a date to be fixed.



Source: © 2007 Davies Brothers Pty Limited.