A man who allegedly punched a police officer and a shop staff member after trying to steal from stores has been released on bail to receive mental health treatment and rehabilitation support.
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Aaron Russell allegedly punched a police officer who approached him while trying to steal items from a Foodworks store on September 17.
There was a scuffle while the police officer attempted to arrest and restrain him and Russell allegedly kicked an off-duty police officer in the arm while she was trying to assist.
Russell allegedly grabbed the police officer in the testicle area and yelled 'I am going to rip your testicles off'.
Additional police were called for back-up and Russell was restrained.
The incident happened in the check-out area of the store.
The CISP program would give him the opportunity to engage in intensive programs.
- Renata Taranto, defence lawyer
The Ballarat Magistrates' Court heard on Tuesday Russell was on bail at the time for similar alleged offending.
Police informant Detective Senior Constable Anthony McKay said Russell attempted to steal from Bunnings in July and punched a staff member who approached him in the nose, causing it to bleed heavily.
Russell is also charged for other shop thefts.
Detective Senior Constable McKay said Russell had prior convictions for similar offending, including assault and resisting an emergency worker.
He said Russell had been experiencing homelessness and using illicit drugs to self-medicate his mental health issues.
Defence lawyer Renata Taranto said Russell was unwell and needed to be bailed to receive mental health treatment through the Court Integrated Services Program.
"The CISP program would give him the opportunity to engage in intensive programs," she said.
"He is at risk of spending a long time in custody. Mental impairment may be a valid defence to a lot of these charges."
Magistrate Ron Saines said Russell had not been compliant with previous bail directions to comply with mental health services.
But he did require treatment for mental health issues and illicit drug use.
Mr Saines said time spent in prison could exceed an appropriate sentence if Russell was refused bail.
He said there were certainly risks of releasing Russell on bail, but treatment reduced those risks to less than unacceptable.
Russell was bailed with the Court Integrated Services Program.
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Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
