Court shown shocking footage of WA Labor figure’s assault as alleged attacker faces new charges
The court heard the man has since recovered from minor injuries.
Dewar had his bail revoked on Friday and will remain in custody until his next court appearance in February, with Millington telling him he was “an inherent risk to the community”.
Tim Picton.
Picton was placed in an induced coma after the alleged attack and underwent surgery for a serious brain bleed and fractured skull.
A court was told during an earlier hearing in December there was a high probability Picton would have a lifelong disability due to his injuries. On Friday, Armadale Magistrates Court heard Dewar’s charges may be upgraded.
Dewar was bailed after the incident involving Picton, but was arrested by homicide squad detectives on Thursday over the unrelated assault on Christmas Day.
“It will be alleged the victim, a 40-year-old man, and the accused were observed speaking briefly before the accused allegedly struck the victim to the head, causing him to fall backwards, striking his head on the pavement,” WA Police said in a statement.
“The victim received facial injuries.”
Dewar was charged with acts or omissions causing bodily harm or danger.
Picton is the brother of South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton, and has worked with Labor in Victoria, South Australia and, most recently, WA.
He is regarded as the architect of some of WA Labor’s biggest successes, including Mark McGowan’s 2021 election win and federal Labor’s resurgence in the state during the 2022 election.
Loading
According to his LinkedIn profile, Picton began his career in politics in 2009 working in the office of Adelaide MP Amanda Rishworth before taking up a role with South Australian Senator Don Farrell.
He took up the position of executive general manager of corporate affairs at MinRes in July 2022, before being named as the director of strategy for the company the following year.
Picton is also an advisory board member of the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia.
In a statement from December, Picton’s family said they were focused entirely on being with him and supporting one another.
“We would like to sincerely thank St John Ambulance, the medical team at Royal Perth Hospital and WA Police for their care, professionalism and support,” they said.
“We also want to thank Tim’s friends and colleagues for the compassion they have shown to our family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
