A BALLARAT man accused of arming himself with a hunting knife and capsicum spray before “setting up” police and threatening to kill them, has been released on bail.
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Kristin Miller, 28, admitted in Ballarat Magistrates Court on Tuesday he was a knife collector and that the situation at his home in the early hours of Tuesday came about due to police members being “on edge” after recent terrorism raids around the country.
Opposing Miller’s bail application, Ballarat police Senior Constable Neville Leishman said he held “grave concerns” for the safety of police and the community if Miller was to be granted bail.
“Police believe the accused was trying to set up police for an attack,” Senior Constable Leishman said.
The officer told the court police went to Miller’s home about 4am after complaints about loud music.
The court heard Miller argued with police but eventually turned the music off.
Senior Constable Leishman said police then left, but returned a short time later after learning Miller had called the Ballarat police station “in protest” and wanted police to come back.
“He has armed himself between police visits,” Senior Constable Leishman said.
The court heard police informed Miller that he would be issued with a penalty notice for loud music, with Miller replying “and you will be dead”.
The officer said capsicum spray then fell from Miller’s pocket, and when police tackled him a large hunting knife fell from his jumper.
Miller is charged with offences including making threats to kill, resisting police and weapons charges.
Representing himself from the dock of the court, Miller said he had been under the influence of “alcohol only” and apologised to police for his behaviour.
Referring to recent terror raids around the country, Miller said police were “on edge more than ever”.
“I asked several times for their names,” he said.
“I have been really hyped up.”
Miller’s father gave evidence to the court that his son was a good man, but could turn “argumentative” when he drank alcohol.
Magistrate Kay Robertson granted bail under strict conditions, adding it had been a “silly episode” for a man with no criminal history.
Miller will re-appear in Ballarat Magistrates Court on October 30.
