A Sydney builder has been refused bail accused of luring his estranged wife to a work site in Unanderra before unleashing a violent attack on her in which he produced a knife and threatened to take her life.
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Robert Calogero is facing four charges relating to the October 4 incident including kidnapping and assault.
Police documents tendered to the court reveal Calogero and his wife of 23 years had recently separated due to his alleged infidelity, however were still jointly running their construction company business, which holds a current contract with NSW Housing.
Calogero was at a job site in Graham Street, Unanderra on the morning of October 4 when he asked his estranged wife to meet him at the site.
She arrived just before 11.30, however Calogero got in her car saying they had to pick up his ute. While driving, Calogero allegedly told the woman “you know I’m going to kill you, don’t you. I’m going to kill you”.
The woman allegedly tried to undo her seat belt and jump from the car however was restrained by Calogero.
He then allegedly punched her repeatedly in the face, prompting her to again try and jump from the car.
Calogero pulled up alongside a fence in Waverley Drive, preventing the escape, police claim.
She eventually managed to get out of the car, however, Calogero allegedly pulled a large hunting knife from his bag and threatened to kill her, then himself.
Calogero then raised the knife and made a cut to his own throat, police say.
The victim ran to a group of workmen nearby.
Calogero drove off however police discovered him a short time later near the job site with multiple self-inflicted stab wounds. He was flown to St George hospital.
The woman was treated in Wollongong Hospital for facial swelling and bruising.
Calogero was arrested on October 6.
In court on Wednesday, defence lawyer Steven Boland said his client denied the kill threats and proposed to live interstate with relatives if granted bail.
However, Magistrate Mark Douglass refused to release Calogero, saying his disregard for his own wellbeing and safety was concerning.
“It paints a picture of a man who was very troubled. If someone is at the point where they self harm, it would perhaps be difficult to deter them from harming others,” he said.
The case returns to court next month.
