Charges Dropped Against Bondi Attack Hero Over Alleged Assault
Above: Ahmed al-Ahmed stands at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney on Jan. 4. Image credit: Saeed Khan/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This development is real a relief. Whatever happens in al-Ahmed's domestic life should be kept separate from his heroic acts in Bondi, and these reports were a distraction tarring a record of incredible bravery. With these charges dropped, al-Ahmed's public profile can reset as the hero who risked his life to keep others safe.
Narrative B
If anything, this saga is evidence that it's risky to put anyone on a pedestal. Whether the various claims in this case were true or not, what is certain is that the wealth and recognition that came after al-Ahmed's initial bravery has caused serious harm within his family. Rather than deifying him, the media should have let him be.