A Hamilton man accused of family violence-related offending, including assaulting his partner and shredding her belongings with a machete, has been refused bail.
The 27-year-old man appeared in Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Monday charged with a range of family violence-related offences.
Advertisement
The court heard the man and the victim were in an on-and-off-again relationship for about two years when an alleged argument ensued and the man demanded she break her own phone so that she could no longer be contacted, which she did.
During the argument, the man was enraged and called the woman names, making her cry.
The following morning, while the victim was in the shower, the man allegedly used scissors and a machete to shred her clothing, as well as wires connected to electrical goods, and sentimental items.
The court heard the alleged incident was reported to police and a warrant was issued for the man's arrest.
But the man allegedly jumped the bank fence of his property on three occasions, fleeing police and avoiding arrest.
Then on Sunday, police members attended the man's address after a family member of the victim reported concerns for the victim's safety to police.
Upon their arrival, the man again jumped over the fence and fled the scene.
The victim was visibly upset, telling police that the man was controlling and had prevented her from speaking with family or friends.
She allegedly told police she was too scared to leave the address.
The court heard it was later reported that the man had previously twice slapped the woman to the face, leaving her feeling "pain and fuzzy".
The man is also accused of threatening to kick the victim and seriously injuring her unborn child.
He attended the Warrnambool police station by appointment at the weekend and was arrested, interviewed and charged with family violence and assault-related offences.
In a self-represented bail application, the man denied some of the offending.
He said that if he was remanded in custody, he would have to go into hiding, further delaying the court process.
Bail was refused, the man was remanded and he will appear in court again on December 13.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Emma House is a Warrnambool-based not-for-profit service and can be contacted through 1800 EMMADV (1800 366238) or visit emmahouse.org.au/
Advertisement
Safe Steps for women after hours service is available through 188 015 188.
Brophy Family and Youth Services can be contacted on 1300 BROPHY or 03 5561 8888.
