Melbourne Lawyer Samuel Monkivitch Charged in Dine-and-Dash Spree Across Hong Kong
Melbourne lawyer's serial dine-and-dash spree at five-star Hong Kong hotels stuns city: 'He would pretend to be drunk'

Image: Mail Online
Melbourne lawyer Samuel Monkivitch has been charged in Hong Kong for a series of dine-and-dash incidents at luxury hotels and restaurants. His actions, which included pretending to be drunk and aggressive behavior, have drawn comparisons to Australia's viral 'succulent Chinese meal' moment. Monkivitch is currently in custody facing multiple charges.
- 01Monkivitch is accused of dining and fleeing from four establishments, totaling approximately HK$2,039 (around $420 USD).
- 02He pleaded guilty to charges including common assault for striking a bystander's hand and was fined about $540.
- 03The lawyer's antics have sparked outrage in Hong Kong's hospitality sector, with witnesses fearing to intervene due to his aggressive demeanor.
- 04Monkivitch's employer, KorumLegal, has distanced itself from him, stating he has not been associated with the firm since October 2022.
- 05His case is scheduled to return to court on June 5, 2023.
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Samuel Monkivitch, a Melbourne lawyer, has been charged by Hong Kong police for a series of alleged dine-and-dash incidents at several high-end restaurants and hotels. Between April 25 and May 5, 2023, Monkivitch reportedly left without paying for meals, with bills totaling around HK$2,039 (approximately $420 USD). His behavior, which included pretending to be intoxicated and aggressive towards bystanders, has drawn comparisons to the infamous 'succulent Chinese meal' incident involving Jack Karlson. Monkivitch faced court on May 7, where he pleaded guilty to charges of fleeing from two establishments and common assault for striking a bystander who filmed him. He received a fine of $540 USD and was ordered to pay the outstanding bills. Following the incidents, his employer, KorumLegal, announced that Monkivitch had not worked with them since October 2022, emphasizing that his actions do not reflect the firm's values. The case has generated significant outrage within Hong Kong's hospitality industry, with witnesses expressing fear of confronting Monkivitch due to his intimidating behavior. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 5, 2023.
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Monkivitch's actions have raised concerns among local restaurant owners and staff about safety and the impact of such behavior on the hospitality industry.
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