Benjamin John Nannup fined for punching Tesla after altercation at Red Rooster restaurant

A Bunbury man has been fined for drunkenly punching a Tesla car after a punch up with his ex-partner’s brother at a Peel fast food restaurant.

Benjamin John Nannup, 44, appeared in Bunbury Magistrates Court on Monday, where he pleaded guilty to one charge of criminal damage, disorderly behaviour in public and breaching a community order.

Nannup was seen involved in a physical altercation at Red Rooster Mandurah on February 10.

The court was told he was in a visibly intoxicated state, not wearing a shirt, shouting and repeatedly swearing in front of restaurant customers and staff.

Nannup left the restaurant, walked on to a roundabout outside the store and punched an oncoming red Tesla vehicle on the passenger side door, causing multiple dents.

The court was told the vehicle suffered $6634.21 in damages, with the victim left $1500 out of pocket after insurance.

When interviewed by police the following day, Nannup said he had been drinking but had “no recollection” of the incident.

It was later revealed Nannup had been battling a severe drinking problem and was homeless at the time of offence. He was also going through a break-up with his now ex-partner.

The court was also told the other man involved in the Red Rooster altercation was Nannup’s former partner’s brother.

Magistrate Benjamin Tyers handed down a $500 fine for the disorderly behaviour, a $100 fine for the breach charge and a six-month community based order for the criminal damage, with $1500 to be paid to the victim.

He said the incident was “appalling behaviour”.