David James Pye, the alleged mastermind behind the fatal shooting of WA bikie Nick Martin, has appeared in court for the first time, facing additional charges of inciting two other murders. Pye, a former Comancheros member, was charged on Monday with five offences, including Martin's murder and two counts of inciting murder of a 35-year-old woman and a bikie gang member living overseas.
He appeared via video link from Casuarina prison, shackled and wearing an orange jumpsuit, with a large tattoo on his head. The courtroom was closed to the public, with only court staff, lawyers, media, and police present.
Prosecutors allege Pye paid a former soldier $300,000 to carry out the sniper-style attack that killed Martin at the Kwinana Motorplex in December last year. The shooter, whose identity is suppressed, has pleaded guilty to murder and is due for sentencing next month.
Pye is also accused of offering money to the same shooter to murder a woman and another bikie member overseas. He was not required to plead and was remanded in custody until his next court appearance, scheduled after the shooter's sentencing.
WA Police Commissioner's lawyer Nick John applied for a suppression order on Pye's identity, citing safety concerns and the need for a fair trial. The application was supported by Pye's lawyer, Paul Holmes. However, Chief Magistrate Steven Heath denied the order, noting Pye's name had already been widely reported and a police media conference had been held.
Outside court, Holmes acknowledged the suppression order would have been 'superfluous' but expressed concerns for Pye and his family's safety. He stated he had not yet taken instructions on whether Pye will defend the charges, which could take years to reach trial.
