A Newcastle man accused of publicly displaying Nazi symbols on a boat moored at Swansea has failed in his attempt to be released on bail.
Bail Application Refused by Magistrate
Jake Dearie, 32, appeared via video link from custody in Belmont Local Court on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. His lawyer, Michelle Rimmington, argued for his release, citing his role as a carer for family members and a chronic back injury that required hospitalisation at John Hunter Hospital while in custody.
Magistrate Stephen Olischlager refused the application, finding Dearie had not demonstrated a significant change in circumstances since his initial bail refusal on December 17. The magistrate noted that the family and health issues were known at the time of the first hearing.
"It should not be assumed that medical services could be better provided in the community than in custody," Mr Olischlager said during the hearing.
Alleged Offensive Imagery on Vessel
The court heard that police received a photograph in early December of a boat featuring a "professional-looking" decal across its sides and stern. The wrap allegedly depicted reversed swastikas, other imagery, slogans, and depictions of fish, which were described as anti-Semitic symbolism.
Following an investigation, police raided a home on Albert Street on December 16, arresting Dearie and seizing two boats and other items for forensic examination.
Second Person Charged in Investigation
The court was informed that a 34-year-old woman has since been charged in connection with the same alleged incident. She attended Belmont Police Station on January 9 and was charged with identical offences. She is scheduled to face court for the first time in February.
Magistrate Olischlager stated that the charging of another person did not affect the strength of the prosecution's case against Dearie.
Dearie has been charged with causing a Nazi symbol to be displayed in a public place and behaving in an offensive manner in or near a public place or school. He has not yet been required to enter pleas.
He also faces separate domestic violence and driving matters before the courts. Dearie will remain in custody and is next due to appear at Belmont Local Court later this month.
