Brisbane man Benjamin Holt speaks out about teen who allegedly organised Airbnb party that led to his house being trashed

A Brisbane teenager who allegedly organised a wild house party that led to an Airbnb being trashed by 500 people is unlikely to face charges and could instead just be asked to give a simple apology.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is expected to be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act after allegedly organising the out-of-control party at the weekend.

Hundreds of teenagers trashed the East Brisbane home and caused thousands of dollars of damage on Saturday after the invite went out on social media platform Snapchat.

The property was initially booked for a family of five.

However, the unruly teens turned up and trashed the place.

On Wednesday, homeowner Benjamin Holt appeared on Sunrise where he was questioned over the possible punishment, who appeared less than impressed over the handling of the teenager.

“We know that police have said they won’t charge the person. He instead will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act. So, this might end with an apology, is that enough?” Sunrise host Matt Shirvington asked.

“Well, it also could end a lot differently as well. We will have to see how it plays out. There are other factors involved. The school have got to do their investigation. The parents obviously will be involved in the matter as well,” Holt said.

“There is the cost of the bill. There is still a long way to go in the process and I am sure it will play out and everyone will get justice.”

Holt said the teenager needed to be dealt with so the public could learn.

“The important thing is about educating the public as well that the behaviour is not on. If you do something like this, you will get caught and that is a very strong message,” Holt said.

After Holt spoke out, he received a threatening email from someone claiming to be the party host suggesting he shouldn’t have gone to the police and the media, which he said was frightening.

“It has to be someone very well known to the person, if it wasn’t the person, because it had their personal details in there. Yeah, very frightening that that can happen. You don’t expect that to come at all, especially after a party of such magnitude,” Holt said.

“Whoever sent it still thinks it’s funny and their actions are acceptable. Hopefully, as time goes by, they realise that it is not on and people can’t be behaving like that and can’t be destructing property like that either.

“Education is the main thing and hopefully we can stamp it out in the future.”

Holt said while he was upset about the damage, he was happy with the quick actions of the police.

“I am thankful for the police and the job they have done in this matter,” he said.

“They have acted so promptly with everything and have been a good support for me.

“What I have had explained to me is it will be an extensive process and not very fun.

“I am not sure the person responsible will be recommending a party like this after the process is done.

“That is what has been explained to me. I am looking forward to seeing it out.”

Airbnb addresses wild party

Airbnb has condemned the party, saying such behaviour is unacceptable.

The account of the alleged teenage party host has been suspended from the platform.

“Airbnb does not permit disruptive gatherings, and this type of behaviour has no place on our platform, a spokesperson for Airbnb Australia and New Zealand said 7News.com.au.

“We’re supporting the host and assisting with the police investigation.”

Airbnb offers damage protection for hosts, with coverage up to US$3 million for eligible claims.

The listing for Holt’s property has been deactivated while claims are processed.

Airbnb also reminded users that disruptive parties are prohibited and its 24-hour safety line is available to the homeowner for urgent matters.

Concerned neighbours can contact the company directly through the Neighbourhood Support Line with concerns about properties they suspect may be listed on the platform.