A verdict of manslaughter delivered in Victoria’s Supreme Court triggered an emotional outburst from the gallery as Daniel Devlin was held criminally responsible for the death of Ali Chaaban. The conviction concludes a week-long trial centered on a violent confrontation that occurred in Heidelberg West on June 15, 2024.
Prosecutor Jim Shaw presented the Crown’s case, detailing how Devlin arrived at Mr. Chaaban’s residence—an acquaintance, but not a friend—and was explicitly told he was not welcome. The interaction rapidly escalated into a physical altercation outside the home. Evidence presented to the jury described Devlin removing his shirt before the two men engaged in a fight, which culminated in Mr. Chaaban being knocked to the ground.
The prosecution argued that Devlin placed Mr. Chaaban in a prolonged headlock, a action characterized as “clearly dangerous.” This claim was supported by footage from police body-worn cameras, which allegedly captured Devlin continuing to assault the critically injured man even as officers arrived on scene and attempted to intervene. Mr. Chaaban succumbed to his injuries in Austin Hospital the following morning, with the official cause of death determined to be blunt force trauma to the neck.
The defense, led by barrister Justin Hannebery KC, posited an alternative explanation for the death. He suggested that the presence of methamphetamine in Mr. Chaaban’s system introduced reasonable doubt, arguing that the autopsy could not definitively pinpoint the duration or precise mechanism of the fatal injury. Hannebery further contended that the headlock could be interpreted as an “innately defensive” maneuver rather than an aggressive act, and noted a lack of clear evidence regarding which party initiated the physical conflict.
Despite these arguments, the jury returned a guilty verdict. The Chaaban family, present in court, expressed profound relief and a sense of justice following the decision. Devlin is scheduled to return for a pre-sentence hearing on March 31, where sentencing will be determined.