A Coniston tradie has been refused court bail accused of viciously bashing another man during a dispute over a car.
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Peter John Hart, 56, repeatedly punched the victim before kicking him in the head while wearing steel cap work boots in the carpark of the North Gong Hotel last Thursday afternoon.
The man was taken to hospital with multiple injuries including a fractured eye socket, fractured nose and swelling to his face and head.
Hart was charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm.
Facing court on Friday, Hart did not deny his involvement in the altercation, however claimed he had been acting in self defence at the time.
Police documents tendered to the court said Hart and the victim had agreed to meet at the pub to talk about the vehicle in dispute.
A witness told police Hart appeared agitated and was leaning towards the victim saying “I want my f—king ute back”.
The pair then walked towards the carpark, at which time the witness allegedly heard Hart saying “I want my ute back … I’ll kill you”.
Police claim CCTV footage from the hotel shows the victim walking backwards, appearing to attempt to put distance between himself and an advancing Hart.
Hart is then seen to raise his fist and punch the victim up to five times while holding him by the back of the shirt, police claim.
The victim fell to the ground, at which time Hart allegedly puts his right knee on the man’s head, pinning him down, while continuing to punch him.
Police allege the footage then shows Hart get to his feet and kick the victim in the back of the head before walking off.
In refusing bail, Magistrate Michael Stoddart said the prosecution case against Hart appeared a strong one.
“Whatever way you look it, it’s a very alarming and serious set of allegations,” he said.
Whatever way you look at it, it’s a very alarming and serious set of allegations
- Magistrate Michael Stoddart
“If convicted, the likely result would be a lengthy custodial sentence.”
The case will reutrn to court on January 31.