A Lake Heights man accused of stealing native plants worth $10,000 and threatening two men with an axe has been unable to overturn an interim apprehended violence order (AVO) in Port Kembla Local Court.
Ryan James Sharp appeared before the court on Wednesday, November 5, facing multiple charges but focusing on the interim AVO protecting a neighbour. He alleged the AVO was being used maliciously, citing a recent incident where police were called because he 'smirked' at the neighbour's son.
Mr Sharp claimed the neighbour had contacted police over 20 times for 'frivolous' matters since the AVO was imposed in September, with no offences detected. He argued that the AVO was being used as a weapon against him, but police prosecutor Sergeant Robert Casey stated the order could only be varied if circumstances changed.
Magistrate Susan Beattie acknowledged Mr Sharp's concerns but noted that breaches of AVOs are treated seriously and can lead to jail. She ordered police to provide all remaining evidence for the 21 charges by November 19, with a hearing date to be set on December 10.
Mr Sharp faces charges including stealing nine plants, including grasstrees, possessing an illegal drug, and being armed with intent after allegedly producing an axe during an argument on July 6.
