A Ballarat man who allegedly drove at a police officer in a stolen vehicle, almost hitting him before speeding away, has been refused bail.
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It is alleged Kyle Peter Green, 31, missed hitting the police officer by up to one metre in a Ballarat East driveway on July 27.
Police were called to the property on the corner of Kline and Spencer streets following a report of a stolen Holden ute.
Police informant Senior Constable Steve Nicholson told a bail application hearing at the Ballarat Magistrates Court on Friday police officers saw a male they identified as Green at the address.
He said the accused walked to the driver’s side of the stolen ute and got inside when one of the police officers went to speak to him.
Senior Constable Nicholson said Green started the engine and drove the ute towards the officer, who drew his firearm and pointed it at the window in an attempt to get the accused to stop driving at him.
The police officer yelled at Green to stop the vehicle.
“The accused accelerated, causing the ute’s wheels to lose traction. It slid sideways and took off at a fast rate of speed,” Senior Constable Nicholson said.
“The accused missed hitting (the police officer) by half- to one-metre and left him shaken and in fear of what might happen to him. He was concerned for other members of the general public.”
Green was later arrested at the Ballarat Magistrates Court where he was answering his bail.
A month before the Ballarat East incident on June 26, unknown offenders attended a Delacombe house to allegedly steal a Holden ute and Harley Davidson motorcycle.
Defence lawyer Adrian Paull put to the police informant there was no evidence linking Green to the burglary and theft at the house.
Senior Constable Nicholson agreed, but said forensic testing had not yet been completed and Green may be charged with further offences when the results were known.
The court was told Green had an extensive prior history, including pointing a gun at police six years ago.
In showing compelling reasons why Green should be bail, Mr Paull said Green’s case would be delayed, he had complied with his bail, he had family support and stable accommodation.
But magistrate Brian Clifford said the police case was strong.
“The safety of the community must be well ahead of the questions of delay. (Green) is at risk of the safety and wellbeing of the community if he is granted bail. Bail is refused,” Mr Clifford said.
Green was remanded in custody to reappear at court for a committal mention in October.
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