Ernie Dingo facing assault charge

Actor and TV personality Ernie Dingo has been charged with assault over an alleged incident at a primary school in the Western Australian town of Carnarvon.

The 54-year-old was charged by summons today with aggravated common assault after it was alleged he slapped an 11-year-old boy.

The Aboriginal actor, famed for his part in the Australian film Bran Nue Dae and as presenter of Seven’s travel show The Great Outdoors, was in Western Australia to promote NAIDOC celebrations when the alleged attack occurred at Carnarvon Primary School on Wednesday, July 28.

When the allegations first surfaced earlier this month, Dingo’s publicist told WAtoday.com.au that he categorically denied the claim.

Although police originally downplayed the claim, local detectives have now charged the 54-year-old Queensland actor with common assault.

The charge relates not just to the assault, but that it allegedly occurred in front of other children.

The school’s principal refused to comment.

The incident follows recent media coverage about Dingo’s personal life.

He is expected to appear in the Carnarvon Magistrates Court on October 11.

Source: ABC Online, smh.com.au