Victory For Client Who Suffered Physical Abuse at an Army School

O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors successfully represented our client Brian*, who suffered severe physical abuse at an Army School. This case demonstrates the importance of seeking justice for physical abuse victims.

Physical abuse at an army school

Brian endured severe physical abuse, including stabbing, a broken finger and nose, stitches to his eye, and being hit with wooden brooms until he lost consciousness. Despite no sexual abuse, the severity of the physical abuse at an army school led to a significant settlement offer from the state.

Are lawyers are specialists in this area of law. We have represented many clients for cases of abuse at an army school. Read our Case Studies on the subject here.

What happened at the army school?

In 1978*, Brian enlisted in the Australian Army as an apprentice motor mechanic at the Army School. Shortly after his arrival, he was placed into a platoon and accommodation hut with senior and junior apprentices. Senior apprentices, returning from leave, immediately began abusing Brian and his fellow junior apprentices.

One senior apprentice subjected Brian to numerous abuses, including:

Kicked in the Groin: The alleged kicked Brian, causing him immense pain and requiring first aid.
Burnt with an Iron: He also pressed a hot iron onto Brian’s finger, breaking it and causing severe burns.
Beaten with a Broomstick: Additionally, he hit Brian with a wooden broomstick, causing significant pain and discomfort.
Stabbed with a Knife: Shockingly, he stabbed Brian in the back with a sharpened butter knife, requiring lots of stitches.

Other senior apprentices also attacked Brian:

Punched Repeatedly: Another student punched Brian in the face, breaking six of his teeth. He also received stitches for these injuries.

These brutal incidents were part of a broader torture of abuse at the Army School, where senior apprentices often targeted junior apprentices. Despite the absence of sexual abuse which also took place at the school, the state acknowledged the extreme physical abuse’s severity. This led to a significant settlement in Brian’s favour.

Successful outcome for abuse at an army school.

The matter was successfully settled in favour of our client. The state made a higher offer due to the severe physical abuse.

Are you a victim of abuse at an army school?

If you or someone you know has been a victim of physical abuse at an army school, seek legal advice immediately. Enquire today. We can also set up a free appointment with the civil lawyers in our Sydney office. Our team is here to help you get the justice you deserve.

*For help if you were abused, please visit this site for resources.