Bensly Obed released on bail after ‘very serious’ alleged offending against woman in Stanthorpe

A Stanthorpe man has been released on bail by a magistrate despite a magistrate describing the allegations as ‘extremely concerning’.

A Stanthorpe man has been granted bail in Warwick Magistrates Court on a deprivation of liberty charge.

A 30-year-old will remain in the community under strict conditions following an alleged horrific attack on a young woman.

Stanthorpe man Bensly Obed faced Warwick Magistrates Court late on Monday afternoon, accused of assaulting a young woman on March 3, 2024.

Arriving from custody at the watch-house, Mr Obed required the help of a translator to understand his bid for bail.

Acting as duty lawyer, Sarah Campbell urged the magistrate to grant Mr Obed bail until his matter can progress, and described the police’s allegations as “very serious” offending.

Police will allege about 1am on March 3, a 20-year-old woman was walking on Folkestone St at Stanthorpe when she was allegedly approached by Mr Obed.

Police further allege he grabbed the woman and threw her over a nearby fence and pinned her to the ground.

The Stanthorpe man then allegedly fled on foot and the woman was taken to Stanthorpe Hospital for treatment.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Steve de Lissa opposed bail for Mr Obed, and acknowledged the man had no history.

Mr Obed is charged with one count of deprivation of liberty and one count of assault occasioning bodily harm.

On Monday afternoon magistrate Virginia Sturgess noted the man’s charges demonstrated “extremely concerning” alleged behaviour.

Bail was granted for Mr Obed, on the conditions that he report to police three times a week and would be subject to a police enforced curfew.

The matter will return to court on April 10.

Detectives are urging anyone who has had similar experiences to come forward.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.