Perth, Australia — A 26-year-old man will spend at least 12 years behind bars after a brutal attack that left his workmate severely injured. Matthew William Lawson was sentenced this week after using drugs and alcohol before attacking Trae Black at a job site in July 2024.
The incident escalated when Lawson, under the influence of methamphetamine and alcohol, began by swinging a hammer at Black’s head, narrowly missing. After Black fled into nearby bushland, Lawson chased him in his car, deliberately crashing into him and causing significant injuries.
Judge Natalie Whitby described Lawson’s actions as premeditated and violent. After striking Black with his car, Lawson exited the vehicle and repeatedly struck him with a demolition hammer, leading to critical injuries including a severed leg and extensive skull fractures.
Following his arrest, Lawson made chilling statements to law enforcement, expressing intentions to kill Black if he was still alive. The court heard that his motivations stemmed from a misguided belief that his drugs had been tampered with, leaving him paranoid and convinced that he was in danger.
Black, who suffered catastrophic injuries including a fractured pelvis and a traumatic brain injury, spent 11 days in a coma and is now dependent on a prosthetic leg. He also experiences ongoing psychological distress, such as nightmares and flashbacks, as a result of the attack.
During sentencing, Justice Whitby emphasized the severity of Lawson’s crime, noting his failure to assist Black while he lay injured on the ground. “You violently assaulted a defenseless victim,” she stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Lawson was sentenced to a total of 14 years in prison, with eligibility for parole after serving 12 years, a decision reflecting the court’s stance on the violent nature of the crime. This case highlights the tragic consequences of substance abuse and the resulting violence that can ensue.