Victoria Police have charged a man for allegedly assaulting Victorian MP Andy Meddick’s daughter, Kielan Meddick, on a Melbourne street last month.
The 25-year-old said she was left bleeding in hospital following the incident on a street in Fitzroy.
The man allegedly threw a spray can at her during the altercation at about 11pm on November 18.
“A 25-year-old woman became involved in a verbal altercation with a man who allegedly threw a spray can towards her as she attempted to flee,” Victoria Police said.
Andy Meddick last month alleged the attack occurred after his daughter saw an anti-vaccination sign on a pole and began spray painting over it.
The man then allegedly “aggressively and abusively” approached her from behind, yelling abuse at her.
Kielan became “scared and started to walk away,” throwing the spray paint can while the man chased her, the MP said.
Andy Meddick said the man then followed her. He allegedly picked up the can and threw it “at force” at the back of her head, he said.
Kielan said she ran into a nearby bar for help. She went to hospital with a 3cm gash on her head, requiring stitches.
After a public appeal, police said a 20-year-old man handed himself in to a station about 2.15am on Thursday.
Victoria Police interviewed the man and charged him with recklessly causing injury and discharging a missile.
The Maribyrnong man was bailed. He’ll front Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 20.
Andy Meddick responds to police charges over daughter’s assault
At the time, Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick said he was “desperately worried” about “threats and intimidation” he’d received over his COVID-19 politics.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said last week police had no evidence Kielan, who’s transgender, was targeted because of her father.
On Thursday, the Victorian MP said he was relieved to see police lay charges.
“This has been a difficult time for my family, particularly Kielan,” he said.
“[Kielan] has struggled greatly since the attack and the abuse that followed after.
“This matter is now one for the court. In order to not impact the process, I’ll await until it’s completion before making further comment.”
The assault was condemned by political leaders including Premier Dan Andrews and Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the time.
Last year, Andy Meddick announced the arrival of his transgender daughter Kielan in a sweet “birth announcement” on social media.
For the latest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) news in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
No Comment