An Illawarra man accused of stabbing his friend during an argument at a home in Koonawarra in July has failed to get court bail to attend his father’s funeral.
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Police allege Lindsey Cochrane stabbed his friend of 20 years, Ivan Buchanan, in the chest with a knife during a gathering at the house to watch the State Of Origin.
Mr Buchanan was left with a 15cm gash on the right side of his sternum. He underwent emergency surgery that night.
Cochrane was arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
He has been in custody, bail refused, ever since, however in Wollongong Local Court on Wednesday sought release on compassionate grounds.
His lawyer told the court Cochrane’s father had recently died and he wanted bail to attend his funeral.
She said Cochrane, who was emotional throughout the proceedings, could live with a relative and would agree to abide by strict bail conditions if released, including daily reporting to police.
“Both his parents are now deceased,” the lawyer said.
“Mr Cochrane is an Aboriginal person and your Honour would be no doubt aware of the significance of funerals in the Aboriginal community.”
Prosecutors opposed Cochrane’s application, noting he could apply to Corrective Services to attend the funeral accompanied by a prison escort.
Magistrate Michael Stoddart said he was sympathetic to Cochrane’s situation but had to consider the safety of the community if Cochrane was released.
“It’s a tragic change in circumstances with his father dying,” Magistrate Stoddart said, however noted that Cochrane had a lengthy criminal history and was on a suspended sentence at the time of the incident.
“I’m sympathetic to him wanting to attend his father’s funeral but the court has to be satisfied whether the unacceptable risk he poses to the community can be mitigated by conditions, and I don’t have any confidence it can be.
“Bail is refused.”
Cochrane’s case will return to court on October 25.
It’s a tragic change in circumstances with his father dying
- Magistrate Michael Stoddart