Former Hollywood actor, Jason Hoganson, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after assaulting his ex-girlfriend in the street. Hoganson, known for his role in the 1980s film Empire State, struggled with fame, leading him down a path of alcohol, drugs, and crime. The court heard that Hoganson attacked his ex-partner in Newcastle last December, despite having a restraining order against him.
Prosecutor Amy Levitt described the assault captured on a doorbell camera, where Hoganson slapped, hit, and pushed his ex-partner to the ground, continuing to assault her for about three minutes. This incident occurred even after Hoganson had previously been convicted of battery and criminal damage offences, resulting in a restraining order.
Hoganson, who pleaded guilty to assault by beating and breach of a restraining order, was sentenced by Judge Tim Gittins to 18 months in prison, most of which he has already served on remand. His defence lawyer, Ian Crook, highlighted Hoganson’s struggles with mental health issues and substance abuse, exacerbated by his difficulties in handling sudden fame from his acting career.
Hoganson’s journey from a promising actor to a troubled individual reflects the challenges many face in navigating the pressures of fame and personal struggles. Despite his current situation, it was noted that Hoganson had shown a willingness to mentor others while in custody, indicating a potential for rehabilitation.
The case sheds light on the complexities of fame and personal battles that individuals in the entertainment industry may encounter. For Hoganson, the consequences of his actions have led to a period of incarceration, serving as a stark reminder of the repercussions of harmful behaviour towards others.