Orthodox priest escapes conviction

A Greek Orthodox priest who grabbed a parishioner after a heated exchange at a Sydney church committee meeting has pleaded guilty to assault, but no conviction has been recorded against him.

Father John Grillis, 53, pleaded guilty to one charge of common assault over the incident at the Greek Orthodox Church in Burwood on February 1, 2006.

A more serious charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm was dropped after the prosecution and defence reached an agreement late on the first day of the hearing at Burwood Local Court.

The court was told 10 members of the Parish Community of Saint Nectarios Burwood were discussing a number of issues at a monthly committee meeting when a disagreement developed between Grillis and John Mihalopoulos.

According to a statement of facts tendered to the court, “strong words” were exchanged before the priest got up from his chair and approached Mr Mihalopoulos, who was sitting down.

Earlier in the hearing, the court was told Grillis grabbed John Mihalopoulos in a headlock, holding an empty glass to his neck.

But an amended statement of facts read: “(Father Grillis) grabbed him around his shoulders and chest with his right arm.”

Mr Mihalopoulos said he could not get free and the other members of the committee had to help him.

In earlier evidence, Mr Mihalopoulos said the incident had left him feeling uncomfortable around the priest.

“I remember this scene all the time,” he said.

Magistrate William Pierce found the charge proven but in deciding not to record a conviction he took into account the minor nature of the offence, Grillis’ previous good character and a degree of provocation.

“You’ve laid on hands in a somewhat unorthodox fashion,” Mr Pierce said.

Grillis declined to comment after the hearing.