One of the Sydney men accused of breaking into the North Wollongong Optus store and trying to steal $15,000 worth of products will stay behind bars after making an unsuccessful application for bail.
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Craig David Batten is accused of helping mates Steven Varty and Craig McAllister use a crowbar to break into the Flinders Street store in the early hours of July 27, then commence loading display items into grey garbage bags and putting them in the rear of a stolen Holden ute.
A witness who allegedly saw the break-in occurring phoned police, who arrived at the front of the store a few minutes later.
Documents before the court said police saw one of the men running from the building carrying items.
It is alleged Batten was arrested after being found hiding inside the store.
He is yet to enter a plea to the charge of break, enter and steal, however Port Kembla Local Court heard he has an extensive criminal history covering three states and including convictions for similar type offences.
Batten said he could live with his sister if released, however the magistrate refused the application, noting the apparently “very strong” case against him.
