Car sale transaction results in charges against a football player, causing a Queensland resident to become paraplegic
Ramon Steve Max Filipine, a former Ipswich rugby league player and coach, has been granted bail after appearing in Southport Magistrates Court on August 15. Filipine, a father-of-five with another child due within weeks, is facing serious charges related to an alleged incident that took place on August 9.
The alleged incident occurred at the home of 52-year-old Ashley Sabry. According to police, Filipine is accused of pushing or throwing Mr. Sabry from a balcony, causing catastrophic spinal injuries and leaving him paraplegic. Mr. Sabry was struck with timber from the broken balustrade after the alleged fall.
The confrontation is said to have started over a refund dispute for a recently sold 2013 Nissan Pulsar. Filipine has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm while armed/in company and grievous bodily harm.
The magistrate granted bail under strict conditions. Filipine must not contact Mr Sabry, his wife Mary, or the third person allegedly involved in the incident. He is also prohibited from visiting their home.
References were tendered to the court, including one from his wife, highlighting financial hardship if he remained in custody. The magistrate acknowledged the support letters but weighed them against the seriousness of the allegations. The magistrate declined to require the surrender of his passport, noting his 38 years in Australia.
It is not specified in the available information who the 33-year-old man from Forest Lake jointly charged with Ramon Steve Max Filipine is. Filipine was born in New Zealand but has lived in Australia since he was two. He has strong ties to Queensland, as his family lives locally and he has a history playing rugby league in Ipswich.
Filipine's sporting career has been marred by controversy, including off-field incidents and disciplinary issues. Tina Ibraheem has launched a GoFundMe to support Mr. Sabry and his wife Mary, outlining costs for a wheelchair accessible home, modified vehicle, medical equipment, and ongoing care.
The matter will return to Beenleigh Magistrates Court on September 17. Filipine's lawyer stated that his detention would have a significant impact on his family.
