UPDATE: A Nowra Hill man, Callum Bates, made a shocking silent threat during his court appearance via video link on February 25, 2023. The incident occurred while he was connected from Junee Correctional Centre to the Wagga Local Court, sending chills through the courtroom.
Before magistrate Gareth Christofi officially began the proceedings, Bates was seen making alarming hand gestures directed at an unidentified person in the room. He pointed to the camera and performed a throat-slit motion three times, a chilling act that raised immediate concerns among solicitors and observers present.
The court session revealed that Bates is facing serious domestic violence charges involving the same female victim in Ashmont. The allegations date back to December 2022, with charges including taking or detaining a person with intent to obtain an advantage, causing actual bodily harm, and seven counts of common assault. He pleaded not guilty to all nine charges.
Due to the severity of the detention charge, the case has surpassed the local court’s jurisdiction. Magistrate Christofi officially committed the matter for trial. Bates did not request bail during the proceedings, as he is currently serving a custodial sentence for unrelated matters.
Bates is scheduled to appear in the District Court on March 27, 2023. This latest development underscores the gravity of the charges against him and the ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence in the region.
As the case unfolds, the community remains on alert, and further updates are anticipated as the trial date approaches.
