Man Gets 12-Months’ Probation & Conditional Discharge After Stamping On Partner’s Phone During Argument

By Alric Lindsay

Lance Travis Eden appeared in the Summary Court today, July 20, 2026, to face allegations of common assault and damage to property.  While the common assault charge was withdrawn, the Chief Magistrate gave him a 12-month conditional discharge for the damage to property offence.

The court heard that Eden grabbed the complainant’s phone from her during an argument. When she tried to retrieve it, Eden slammed it on the floor, causing $600 in damages (it is understood that Eden has since replaced the complainant’s phone).

It was explained that, in the circumstances, the incident could lead to a financial penalty of up to $5,000 or a custodial term of up to five years.

Arguing on Eden’s behalf, his defence attorney told the court that this was an isolated incident that occurred “in the heat of the moment” and was neither planned nor premeditated.  Reportedly, there had been no further arguments or physical incidents since, save for occasional bickering attributed to stress. The court also heard that Eden slept on a sofa at a relative’s house, and on two occasions in his car, as what counsel called “a constant reminder” of the consequences of losing control on the occasion in question.

Passing sentence, the Chief Magistrate agreed that the matter was an isolated incident, but one that had to be viewed against the background of the relationship between Eden and the complainant. The Chief Magistrate imposed a conditional discharge of 12 months, together with a probation order requiring Eden to be of good behaviour, attend a counselling service for assessment, and complete whatever programme is subsequently recommended, including anger management. The Chief Magistrate explained that, if the conditional discharge was successfully completed, no conviction would be recorded, but emphasised that he needed to address issues around managing his emotions within the context of his relationship.