Rhys Farrugia's stalking case heads to a contested hearing in January
A magistrate said the police case on the harassment charge was 'very strong', while the stalking charge is contested.
Rhys Farrugia, 33, of Portland, has spent 74 days in custody after being refused bail in late July. Farrugia faces allegations of stalking and of using a carriage service to harass.
A magistrate said Farrugia sent the woman many texts, emails, songs and gifts. Farrugia also went to her address despite her requests to stop.
His lawyer said the case involved no threats or violence and was complex. Magistrate Mark Stratmann said there was some strength in the defence on the stalking charge.
Magistrate Mark Stratmann also called the police case on the carriage service charge 'very strong'. The case is booked for a one-day contested hearing on January 19 next year.
- 74 days
- Days in custody
- 33, of Portland
- Age and home
- Warrnambool Magistrates Court
- Court location
- January 19 next year
- Contested hearing
Why it mattersThe key issue is whether Mr Farrugia's conduct amounts to stalking, and a contested hearing is booked for January.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, as this is one local court case in Victoria. Only a wider legal precedent or a change in law would change that.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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