Teen who pushed 79-year-old woman off pier escapes conviction
A teenager who pushed a 79-year-old woman off a pier and later posted a video of it to social media has not been given a criminal conviction.
The 14-year-old, who was on bail at the time of the attack, shoved the elderly woman off Mornington Pier in January, with his his friends cheering him on.
Bystanders had to rescue her because she couldn't swim.
A court has heard that he was remorseful his actions and he has since been handed a diversion, meaning that he will have to undergo a mandatory program which includes counselling and education courses.
If he completes the four-month order, the charges will be removed from his record.
"We're very pleased with the outcome," the teenager's dad said outside of court.
During his sentencing, the magistrate said it was "not going to be an easy process" but "you're remorseful for your behaviour, which is a positive step for you and the community".
"You're a smart young man, with support things can change," the magistrate said.
The 14-year-old is currently serving a diversion for assaulting a a 35-year-old woman in Hastings in November, which he was on bail for in January.
Although the teen was remorseful inside the courtroom, according to Nine News, he reportedly raised his middle finger to those waiting outside when he left.
Images: Nine