A YOUNG Ballarat man accused of carrying out a violent home invasion and armed robbery at the weekend is causing “suffering” to a Wendouree neighbourhood, according to police.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Michael Boyd, 21, appeared in Ballarat Magistrates Court yesterday, where he faced charges including armed robbery and aggravated burglary.
Boyd was released on bail.
Opposing Boyd’s bail application, Ballarat police Criminal Investigation Unit Detective Senior Constable Geoff Highthorn said Boyd and a co-accused were walking along Gillies Street, Wendouree, in the early hours of last Sunday when someone yelled out at them from a house.
Detective Senior Constable Highthorn said Boyd and the co-accused entered the house, with Boyd allegedly producing a knife and making demands for one of the victim’s iPhones.
Referring to another incident in recent weeks, Detective Senior Constable Highthorn said Boyd had been causing trouble in the Langstaff Drive, Wendouree, area.
“The neighbourhood is suffering because of the accused,” he told magistrate Peter Mithen.
Kylie Maloney, for Boyd, said it was her client’s first time in custody, adding Boyd had a learning difficulty, a supportive family and a job to go to if released.
Ms Maloney also called Boyd’s mother, who gave evidence that she would alert police if her son breached any of his bail conditions.
Mr Mithen released Boyd on bail, giving weight to his age, lack of criminal history and family support.
“These are really serious charges,” Mr Mithen said.
“You have to do your bit to ensure you abide by every condition.”
Boyd was bailed to re-appear in Ballarat Magistrates Court on June 5 for a committal mention hearing.
