Mitchell Lock, 25, appeared at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday after he was arrested the day before in the court foyer by Senior Constable Mark Kennedy of the Shepparton Criminal Investigations Unit.
Sen Const Kennedy took to the witness stand, stating the accused was facing criminal damage, trespassing, theft, burglary and bail breach charges for incidents that occurred while Lock was on an 18-month community corrections order.
He told the court on October 18 this year, Lock tried to gain entry to a home at 5 Campbell St, Shepparton, using a knife to cut open the mesh fly screen on the kitchen window.
The court heard that unable to enter, the accused smashed a laundry window and entered the property. Lock stole a tobacco tin and some coins, which were later found at his mother's St Georges Rd property when a search warrant was executed.
Sen Const Kennedy said on November 18, Lock was caught on Tirana City Walk CCTV kicking in a side door to Shepparton Family Restaurant before exiting three minutes later with a full, black bag.
The bag contained $320 worth of soft drink and alcohol.
Sen Const Kennedy said Lock was identified by members of the Shepparton CIU before the arrest took place on Monday, November 25.
When interviewed about the incidents, Lock told police he broke into the Campbell St property to get cannabis he was owed by the occupant.
“Mr Lock continues to make poor choices,” Sen Const Kennedy said.
Sen Const Kennedy expressed his concerns about re-offending if the accused was released on bail.
“I believe every offender is a victim within himself but I believe he will continue to re-offend,” he said.
“His CCO doesn't seem to have a huge impact on his re-offending.”
Defence lawyer Emma King said Lock had been co-operative with police and asked Magistrate Peter Dunn to consider bail with tighter conditions than those of his current order.
Ms King said the accused had strong family support and was a suitable candidate for the Court Integrated Services Program.
She also said if the accused was to remain in custody, the time spent on remand could potentially end up being longer than the sentence for his charges.
Mr Dunn spoke to the accused directly, asking about the choices that led to his arrest.
“There's only one person that can help you, that’s you,” he said.
“It's better to have a sweetie on your arm walking in the moonlight, than sitting in the cells.”
Mr Dunn released Lock on bail with an 18-month community corrections order, including 150 hours of community service, participation in alcohol, drug and behavioural rehabilitation programs and judicial monitoring.
Lock will appear at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on January 20 next year.
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