In a shocking case that has rocked the education community, Gavin Morris, the principal of Yipirinya School in Alice Springs, has been convicted of aggravated assault following a violent confrontation that left a man with serious injuries.
The Northern Territory Court heard how Morris, 52, launched a brutal attack on Derek Walker during a dispute over access to the school premises in March 2023. The altercation escalated dramatically when Morris punched Mr Walker multiple times in the head before the victim fell to the ground.
A Violent Confrontation Captured on Camera
Disturbing CCTV footage presented to the court showed Morris continuing his assault even after Mr Walker had collapsed onto the road surface. The prosecution described how Morris stood over the defenceless man, delivering further blows in what was characterised as a sustained and vicious attack.
During the trial, Morris attempted to justify his actions by claiming he was acting in self-defence, alleging that Mr Walker had threatened him with a knife. However, this version of events was thoroughly dismantled during cross-examination.
Self-Defence Claims Unravel in Court
Under intense scrutiny from prosecutors, Morris's account began to crumble. He admitted to being uncertain about whether Mr Walker actually possessed a weapon during the confrontation. The court also heard that Morris had failed to mention any knife when initially reporting the incident to police.
This critical evidence severely undermined Morris's credibility and his self-defence argument, leading Magistrate David Bamber to deliver a guilty verdict on the charge of aggravated assault.
Fallout and Sentencing Ahead
The conviction has sent shockwaves through the Alice Springs community and raises serious questions about conduct standards for educational leaders. Morris, who has been principal at the independent Aboriginal school since 2021, now faces potential career repercussions beyond the legal consequences.
Magistrate Bamber has ordered a pre-sentence report to assess Morris's suitability for community-based punishment options. The case has been adjourned until October 16, when Morris will learn his fate.
This case serves as a stark reminder that positions of authority do not exempt individuals from legal accountability when violence occurs.
