A Bellambi man has fronted court accused of acting aggressively towards police at a service station in a bizarre, drunken incident which resulted in him being arrested for spitting and assault.
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John Lane is facing charges of offensive behaviour, assault and resisting arrest over the confrontation, which occurred at the Fairy Meadow BP just before 3.30am on Sunday.
Documents tendered to Wollongong Local Court said police were filling up their fully-marked vehicle at the bowser when Lane was seen to enter the store, allegedly swearing and "mouthing off" towards both officers.
The 25-year-old then turned around as he entered the store and allegedly spat in the direction of police, before heading off to buy two Dare chocolate milks.
Police will allege Lane was seen to throw cash at the operator before walking towards the exit, where the officers stopped him on account of the spitting incident.
It is alleged Lane refused to give the officers his name or produce any identification. He allegedly became even more aggressive and was "displaying a high level of intoxication", with officers believing he was under the influence of alcohol, drugs or both.
Police said at one stage Lane allegedly "tensed up" and adopted a fighting stance, prompting them to believe he was about to lash out at them.
They requested backup, and a further four police arrived a short time later.
Lane was eventually wrestled to the ground by four officers after attempting to punch one of them in the face.
He was handcuffed and taken to Wollongong Police Station.
Officers said he was not interviewed due to his level of intoxication and aggression.
He was remanded in custody overnight and faced Wollongong court on Sunday morning where he successfully applied for bail, despite police opposition.
Defence lawyer Matt Kwan said Lane had a very limited criminal record and could live at his home address in Bellambi if released on bail.
He said the lawfulness of Lane's arrest may be an issue at hearing and suggested even if convicted, Lane would not be facing a full-time custodial sentence for the offences.
He said Lane was working as a part-time pressure cleaner and needed to be at liberty to go to work.
Police opposed Lane's release, labelling his alleged behaviour "bizarre" and saying the court could have no confidence he would not endanger community safety if he was released.
Registrar Peter Ritchie agree the case was bizarre but found there were bail conditions that could be put in place to mitigate any risk.
The case will return to court next month.
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