A Towradgi teenager accused of robbing a 15-year-old boy at Bulli on Thursday night was already on bail for serious break and enter charges, a court has heard.
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The Mercury can reveal Jay Jeffrey Pike was arrested and charged with two break, enter and steal offences on January 1 – his 18th birthday – but was released on strict conditional bail at the time owing to his young age and lack of criminal record.
However, police allege he flagrantly violated that freedom last Thursday when he allegedly ambushed the teen while he was walking home and demanded his wallet, mobile phone and hat.
The court heard the pair had met a short time earlier on the train and and had gotten into a brief altercation before both getting off a Bulli Station.
They initially headed in opposite direction however Pike allegedly turned around and began jogging after the victim, catching up with him near Park Road.
The victim told police Pike apologised for the train incident and the two walked together, however the victim said he felt something was “amiss”.
His instinct proved correct when Pike allegedly turned on him near Spinners Way and said “give me your phone or I’ll stab you c—t.”
The victim handed over his property, however Pike allegedly punched him twice before fleeing.
The teen began walking home again but was allegedly confronted by Pike again a few minutes later, who told him to “run”.
The victim ran home and alerted his parents to what had happened.
Pike was arrested on Tuesday and charged with aggravated robbery.
His lawyer, Paul Crean, asked for bail to be reinstated during a court appearance on Wednesday, saying Pike was due to start an apprenticeship on Thursday and would agree to live out of the area with his grandmother if released.
He said Pike would be vulnerable in adult custody given his young age.
However, Magistrate Geraldine Beattie refused to give Pike another chance, saying said she had no confidence he would behave himself if released.
]“He’s charged with a number of serious offences and the allegations before me on this matter are of great concern, especially given the age and vulnerability of the alleged victim.” she said.
“I’m not persuaded to grant bail in this instance.”