Ethan Alan Glass denied bail after he allegedly threatened to smash partner’s head in with dumbbell

The department of public prosecution will not to lay domestic violence charges against a Mount Gambier man accused of choking his partner and threatening to kill her, a court has heard.

After allegedly committing frightening acts of domestic violence, including threatening to smash his partner’s head in with a dumbbell, prosecutors have opted not to employ targeted laws towards a Mount Gambier man, a court has heard.

Though the court heard there was a “suggestion” Ethan Alan Glass, 23, could face charges of choking and suffocation and threats to kill, the department of public prosecution did not lay them.

In 2019 the state government made the act of strangulation or choking a specific offence, which can attract a maximum seven-year jail term, while a charge of threatening to kill or endanger life can attract a maximum jail term of 10 years.

A police prosecutor told the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court Mr Glass will instead face one count of aggravated assault and two counts of aggravated assault with a weapon.

During the alleged violent outburst, police say Mr Glass strangled his partner and threatened to “smash her head in” while holding a dumbbell above his head.

Police also allege he used a pair of scissors and threatened to kill her.

Ethan Alan Glass, 23, has been accused of threatening to bash his partner with a dumbbell. Picture: Supplied

Acting as his defence duty lawyer Zoe Johnston-Borrett made a bid for bail, which was opposed by prosecution.

“Our concern is that if he's just on simple bail then obviously there is a severe risk to the (alleged victim),” a police prosecutor said.

Prosecution was not against home detention bail — however, the court heard Mr Glass did “not have a home address” that he could nominate and instead hoped to receive accommodation through Aboriginal Community Connect.

“Aboriginal Community Connect are willing to assist him with enrolling in a residential rehabilitation program,” Ms Johnston-Borrett said.

“Mr Glass has some significant mental health issues, those issues would be better addressed in the community — with the assistance of a culturally appropriate rehabilitation program.”

Magistrate Melanie Burton said she was concerned over “the gravity of the offence” and the “likelihood” of Mr Glass reoffending.

Ms Burton denied bail but said inquiries should continue with respect to the potential for residents at the Aboriginal community Connect.

“If circumstances change, then it may well be sufficient to support an application for release on home detention,” Ms Burton said.

The Mount Gambier man will next front court later this month.