A 20-year-old man charged with the manslaughter of Labor identity Tim Picton has been released on bail, despite opposition from the victim's family. Brodie Jake Dewar appeared in the Supreme Court via videolink to hear Justice Joseph McGrath grant his release under strict conditions.
Dewar was already on bail for the manslaughter charge and sought bail for an additional charge of causing bodily harm to a man in Kalamunda on Christmas Day. The prosecution did not oppose bail, although Mr Picton's family strongly objected.
Justice McGrath noted that within 48 hours, Dewar had struck two separate individuals. In the Kalamunda incident, Dewar allegedly punched a man in the jaw, causing him to fall and hit his head. In Northbridge, Dewar allegedly punched Mr Picton in the jaw, leading to a fatal fall.
Defence lawyer Simon Watters argued the Kalamunda case was not overwhelming, suggesting the alleged victim may have had something in his hand. The court heard Dewar recorded a Snapchat video after the Kalamunda incident, saying 'don't hit on my younger sister' and 'keep snoring'.
Justice McGrath ordered Dewar to live with his parents, observe a curfew from 7pm to 5am, and not contact the alleged Kalamunda victim. He must surrender his passport, not leave Western Australia, avoid alcohol and licensed premises, and submit to random drug and alcohol tests. A personal undertaking of $10,000 and a surety of $20,000 were also required.
Dewar is scheduled to appear in Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on March 18.
