Man on 14 charges remanded in custody after walking out during court hearing
Eric Chew faced about 14 charges in Victoria and NSW. He was remanded in custody after he walked out during a video court appearance.
Eric Chew was arrested on a warrant. He had failed to attend Albury Local Court on October 29.
The next day he faced Wodonga court via video link from the police station. He walked out of the video room while magistrate Mark Sabljak was speaking.
Chew faces approximately nine Victorian charges. He also faces charges in NSW.
These include police pursuit, using an offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention, drink-driving, receiving stolen property and dishonesty offences. Chew's lawyer did not seek bail.
The court heard Chew was withdrawing from drugs. Several mental health issues were noted as custody concerns.
These included depression, anxiety, PTSD and borderline personality disorder. He will return to Wodonga court on December 1.
- approximately 14
- Charges total
- Victoria and NSW
- Jurisdictions
- October 29
- Missed court
Why it mattersThe incident shows the challenges courts face. They must manage people accused of crimes who have complex mental health and drug-use issues.
AustraliaThis case is being heard in NSW and Victoria local courts, reflecting the multi-state nature of the charges.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
