Bail denied in chase case

High speed pursuits called off, court told

A MAN has been denied bail after a court heard allegations he led police on three highspeed chases around Geelong.

Carey Scanlon, 31, was wanted in connection to a spate of commercial burglaries at the time of the alleged chases earlier this year.

The Geelong Magistrates’ Court yesterday heard claims Mr Scanlon was part of a group that stole $30,000 worth of goods during more than a dozen burglaries in the region.

Geelong CIU Constable

Samuel Judd said the group repeatedly hit local businesses, with shipping containers a regular target.

It is alleged police tried to intercept Mr Scanlon on three separate days in January.

Constable Judd said officers were forced to abandon each of the attempts due to the accused man’s dangerous and erratic driving.

During one incident, detectives were forced to take evasive action after Mr Scanlon allegedly sped through an intersection on Thompson Rd, North Geelong.

Mr Scanlon has been in custody since February 3 when police raided his home in Bell Post Hill.

The court heard a search of his phone revealed images that matched items stolen during the burglaries, including kayaks and trailers.

Prosecutor David Vanderpol opposed Mr Scanlon’s bail application, saying he posed a risk to the community and that the case against him was strong.

“He’s likely to get a substantial term of imprisonment if found guilty,” Senior Constable Vanderpol said.

Defence lawyer Jacob Mildren said his client had a stable address available.

He also argued that any risk Mr Scanlon posed could be brought to an acceptable level through strict bail conditions.

However, Magistrate Ann

McGarvie refused the bail application.

“I have no satisfaction that even strict bail orders would reduce his risk of reoffending,” she said.

Ms McGarvie said the alleged police chases were particularly concerning because such driving “places everyone in danger”.

Three other men have been charged in connection with the burglaries.

One of them, Adrian Hardman, 26, was granted bail yesterday after Ms McGarvie said his situation was different to that of Mr Scanlon.

She said the Norlane man could live with his grandmother in Colac, taking him away from the Geelong area.

Mr Hardman must abide by strict bail conditions including a curfew and bans on driving a motor vehicle or using illicit drugs. His lawyer, Jonathan Barreiro, said the burglary charges would be contested.

Mr Hardman and Mr Scanlon will return to court next Tuesday.