A MAGISTRATE has told an Echuca man to “go and live somewhere else” after the accused assaulted a woman and exposed himself to police while shouting racist abuse, among other offences.
Glen Matthew Calleja, 29, has been banned from coming within 25 kilometres of Echuca for two years after pleading guilty in the Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to a range of offences.
He was also sentenced to 110 days in jail – but has already served 109 days, and will be released on Wednesday.
Calleja was charged with assault for punching a woman in the face while in a “drug affected” state in late September last year, the court heard.
After his arrest, police were unable to stay in the same room as Calleja for fear of their safety.
He was caught drug driving three times in October and November, refusing to go back to the police station on each occasion.
In one instance, his excuse was “I’ve got things to do”, before verbally abusing police.
He was also driving without number plates when pulled over.
Police intercepted him driving 25 km/h above the speed limit in Rochester, when he also tested positive to drugs.
On October 15, police were called to an Echuca house after reports of loud music.
As police pulled up, Calleja ran out of the house naked and made a number of lewd gestures towards officers. He then launched into a racially charged tirade before he was arrested.
Calleja has been in custody for 109 days.
His defence counsel told the court the issues started when Calleja “fell into heavy drug use”, and he was keen to reconnect with his family in Echuca.
Magistrate John Doherty said it was unacceptable behaviour.
“Coppers should not have to put up with this,” he said.
“I’m inclined to put him on a bond and kick him out of town.
“Go and live somewhere else.”
Calleja was sentenced to 110 days prison, with 109 days already served.
His licence was cancelled for 12 months, he was fined $500 and placed on a good behaviour bond, with a condition that he stay away from Echuca for the next two years.
Adam Holmes
From Adelaide to south-west Victoria, Bendigo to Tasmania, I've provided in-depth stories in politics, environmental affairs, issues facing disadvantaged communities, legal affairs and much more. Contact me at adam.holmes@examiner.com.au or on Twitter at @adamholmes010
From Adelaide to south-west Victoria, Bendigo to Tasmania, I've provided in-depth stories in politics, environmental affairs, issues facing disadvantaged communities, legal affairs and much more. Contact me at adam.holmes@examiner.com.au or on Twitter at @adamholmes010
