Alleged Pipe Bomb Maker Enters Not Guilty Plea in Canberra Court
An alleged pipe bomb manufacturer has formally denied creating more than a dozen explosives that were discovered scattered across public footpaths and green spaces in the Australian Capital Territory. The case has drawn significant attention due to the potential public safety risks involved.
Court Appearance and Charges
Damien Paul O'Brien, a Belconnen resident aged in his early forties, appeared at the ACT Magistrates Court on Tuesday, February 10, walking with noticeable difficulty. The man, who has been using crutches since his arrest in January, entered a plea of not guilty to the unauthorised manufacture of a prohibited dangerous substance.
Police investigations began after a passer-by reported finding a suspicious item in north Canberra on January 13. Subsequent searches led to the discovery of multiple pipe bombs, with the majority located in the Belconnen area west of Lake Ginninderra. Two additional suspicious items were later found in a residential part of Weston Creek.
Police Investigation and Evidence
Authorities arrested O'Brien after executing a search warrant at his residence, where they allegedly discovered several items consistent with the manufacturing of pipe bombs. The manufacturing charge specifically relates to fifteen separate explosive devices.
During Tuesday's court proceedings, the defence team requested preliminary disclosure of evidence, including a statement from an Australian Federal Police expert regarding whether the bombs had been detonated when found or if they remained capable of detonation.
Prosecutor Lydia Corcoran informed the court that there was currently no timeframe for providing this expert statement. Defence solicitor James McGuire did not enter pleas for his client's remaining charges, which include theft and possessing a prohibited weapon.
Background of the Case
Previous court hearings revealed that the theft charge relates to galvanised pipes and caps allegedly stolen from a Bunnings hardware store. This connection suggests the possible sourcing of materials for the construction of the explosive devices.
The discovery of multiple pipe bombs in public areas has raised concerns about community safety and the potential for harm to unsuspecting members of the public. The case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in preventing the manufacture and distribution of dangerous weapons.
O'Brien is scheduled to return to court in March for further proceedings. He has not yet applied for bail, meaning he remains in custody while the legal process continues. The court will need to consider both the seriousness of the allegations and the potential risks to public safety when determining bail conditions should an application be made.
This case represents one of several recent incidents involving alleged explosive devices in the Canberra region, prompting increased vigilance from both law enforcement and community members. The outcome of these proceedings will be closely watched by legal observers and public safety advocates alike.
