The Townsville Magistrates Court convened on Friday, January 16, with a list of defendants facing a range of charges from serious assault to traffic offences. The daily court list provides a public snapshot of matters progressing through the local justice system.
Defendants and Charges Before the Court
Several individuals appeared to answer charges or have their matters mentioned. Kane Robert Allan, 31, faced charges of serious assault and contravening a police order. His case was adjourned to a later date for further proceedings.
Rikki-Lee Andrews, 36, was listed on charges of possessing dangerous drugs and utensils or pipes. The court also heard the matter of Kyle Austin, 29, who was charged with driving without a licence.
Other names on the court list included Jai William Baker, 21, charged with driving under the influence of liquor; Shane Leslie Bannister, 40, facing a charge of common assault; and Kane Anthony Barry, 32, charged with driving while disqualified by a court order.
Range of Offences Highlighted
The day's matters underscored the variety of cases handled by the local magistrates court. Drug-related charges featured prominently, with appearances from Jarrod Leslie Beckmann, 38, for possessing dangerous drugs and utensils, and Shane Anthony Bennett, 39, on a charge of possessing dangerous drugs.
Property and theft offences were also listed. Jye Anthony Beresford, 22, faced a charge of entering a dwelling with intent, while Kane Anthony Best, 35, was charged with stealing.
The court list further included traffic violations, such as the case against Shane Anthony Bishop, 40, for driving without a licence, and Kane Anthony Black, 33, charged with driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle.
Court Process and Outcomes
For many defendants, the January 16 listing was a procedural step. Most cases were mentioned briefly and adjourned to future dates for plea, sentence, or further evidence gathering. This is a standard part of the judicial process, allowing time for legal representation, negotiations, or preparation.
The publication of daily court lists is a routine practice that ensures transparency in the justice system. It allows the public to see the types of matters being heard and the progression of cases through the local court.
All individuals named are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The outcomes of these specific matters will be determined in future hearings.