Watch Michael Slater sentenced over Noosa Heads police altercation – Australia Trending News

Former Australian cricketer and commentator Michael Slater has been sentenced over an altercation with police at a Noosa Heads unit complex in March.

The 53-year-old was initially charged with assault over the incident, but this morning pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of obstructing police.

The Noosa Magistrates Court heard police went to the former test star’s unit amid concerns for his welfare just before midnight on March 31.

When officers arrived at the complex, he became aggressive and refused to let them inside.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable David Hoffmann told the court Slater appeared to be affected by alcohol, was verbally abusive and needed to be restrained.

During his arrest, the former television commentator struggled with the officers, causing one to sustain a cut to his finger from the handcuffs.

Slater, who represented himself, told Magistrate Chris Callaghan the past three years had been “the most difficult” of his life.

“I’ve lost everything,” Slater said.

“I’ve lost my job.

“I understand where I’ve gone wrong and I’m completely shameful of not acknowledging the police on that particular night.”

‘Triggered’ by tax bill

Slater became visibly emotional as he told the court he had become “triggered” after receiving a $130,000 tax bill that he could not afford to pay.

“I’ve found the loss of purpose and my work, which is everything, and my income to be highly impactful on me,” Slater said.

Magistrate Callaghan told Slater his behaviour on the night was “unfortunate, to say the least”.

“Police have got difficult jobs dealing with persons who are in a hyper state, as you might have been,” Magistrate Callaghan said.

But he acknowledged the work Slater was doing to improve his situation.

“You’re doing a lot yourself to try and get your life back on the track it was once on,” Magistrate Callaghan said.

He fined Slater $600 but did not record a conviction.