Outside the courthouse, Craven ran in an attempt to avoid being photographed

Anthony Craven, who is accused of masturbating at a handful of Townsville cafes, ran from the Townsville court precinct after the first mention of his matter

THE man accused of masturbating in cafes across several Townsville suburbs has appeared in court for the first time.

Anthony Robert Craven, 54, was charged in October with eight counts of indecent act in any place to which the public are permitted access.

He appeared before Magistrate Scott Luxton in Townsville Magistrates Court at the bar table, alongside his lawyer Troydon Maltby.

Craven’s wife watched on from the public gallery.

Police allege Craven had exposed himself and masturbated in cafes at Idalia, Thuringowa, Douglas and Kirwan over the last 12 months, with the alleged offences occurring in October 2020, and between July and October 2021.

Craven was seen sitting at a cafe in Currajong last month, and he was then taken to the watch-house where he was charged with the alleged offending.

Police will allege some of the acts were committed in front of people.

Craven’s lawyer Troydon Maltby told Magistrate Scott Luxton the charges would not be contested, but there had been “some negotiations” with police about some facts.

Mr Maltby said a “crucial point” he was exploring was a presentence report from Craven’s psychologist, which he submitted would be “pivotal” in determining a penalty.

Mr Luxton granted an adjournment to December 15, enlarging Craven’s bail and excusing his appearance at the next mention.

Outside the courthouse, Craven ran in an attempt to avoid being photographed.

Originally published as Outside the courthouse, Craven ran in an attempt to avoid being photographed