KEY POINTS:
The Melbourne teenager dubbed the MySpace party boy was yesterday in hiding from his parents, unrepentant that the family may face a A$20,000 ($22,740) bill from police for a Saturday night bash that became a riot.
Corey Delaney, 16, said he had done nothing wrong in declaring his
Galloway Drive, Narre Warren, home an open house in an internet invitation that was rapidly relayed by texts and emails. He told Channel Nine that if any other teenagers were considering a similar party they should "get me to do it for them".
And, appearing in searing heat yesterday in a fur-lined hooded jacket, he gave as his verdict: "Best party ever, that's what everyone's saying".
Delaney's appalled parents cut short their holiday on the Gold Coast after police backed by dogs and a critical response team battled 500 youths, dodging bottles used as missiles as they tried to restore order.
Mother Jo and stepfather Stephen Delaney have been unable to contact their son, who hung up every time they tried to call, and who said he had no intention of being home when they returned.
The couple said Corey was to have stayed at a friend's house while they were away, after quitting their planned Queensland family holiday at the last moment. They told Channel Seven they were horrified at his deception and were embarrassed by the impact on their neighbours.
"I can't believe that Corey would do this to us to start with," Jo Delaney said. "Honestly, he must have planned the party."
Victorian police have said they may demand A$20,000 from the family to cover the costs of the riot. "When all else fails, you are the parents, not their best mate," Police Commissioner Christine Nixon said of the Delaneys' decision to leave Corey behind.
The teenager apologised to his neighbours through the Herald Sun newspaper, but said he was not to blame. "There was nothing I could do to stop the people outside."
Delaney's party has been reported around the world and, while most have condemned it, he has drawn some support.
Readers of the news.com.au website described him as a "tosser ... who should be made a street cleaner for five years", a kid who needed to grow up big time and an idiot who "thinks he's Paris Hilton - the clothes say it all".
But others said he was cool and that while he had cost taxpayers a s***load of money, "at least you're not bawling your eyes out asking everyone to forgive you".
