A pack of cigarettes came with a high price for an East Corrimal man who fronted Wollongong Bail Court on Saturday morning.
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Shane Geoffrey Colvin, 36, was charged with driving while disqualified after police allege they saw him behind the wheel at a Fairy Meadow service station.
Colvin had been barred from driving until 2024.
The police facts allege they followed the car into Burling Avenue, where it was found abandoned on the wrong side of the road.
Police allege Colvin had run into a nearby backyard and scaled a fence before surrendering to pursuing officers.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Anna Comer opposed bail citing concerns that Colvin would commit further offences and that he would fail to appear before the court.
“The accused has a lengthy record of matters of a similar nature,” Sgt Comer said.
She added there was a likelihood of Colvin going to jail if convicted of the offence.
Colvin’s legal aid solicitor Mr Whiteside said he admitted to driving the car.
“He said he drove to get some cigarettes from a local service station,” Mr Whiteside said.
“He panicked when he saw the police.”
Mr Whiteside said there were extenuating circumstances, including the fact it was the anniversary of the death of Colvin’s father.
In seeking bail, Mr Whiteside said Colvin would promise not to drive a car and suggested his employer may be able to offer a security of $1000 to ensure Colvin appeared at court.
Registrar Coulthard refused bail and remanded Colvin to appear at Wollongong Local Court on July 24.