John Roberts, 49, found not guilty of Ballina domestic violence attack

A North Coast man has been found not guilty after police accused him of a brutal domestic violence attack.

Police alleged the woman was fearful to talk to officers when she went to Ballina District Hospital’s emergency department. However, John Roberts, 49, has been found not guilty.

A North Coast man has been found not guilty after police accused him of dousing a woman in fuel, bashing her and threatening to cut her up.

John Roberts, 49, pleaded not guilty at Ballina Local Court to intimidation and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Mr Roberts faced a hearing before Magistrate Kathy Crittenden at Ballina Local Court.

Ballina Courthouse. Picture: Savannah Pocock

Police accused Mr Roberts of attacking the woman on July 31 last year during a short-lived relationship, leaving visible injuries.

It was alleged by police in court documents Mr Roberts punched the woman, strangled her and “splashed petrol from a container” over her “completely dousing her from head to toe”.

Police alleged the woman ran from the home and flagged a car down on Tamar St, Ballina, pleading with the driver to take her to hospital.

John Roberts, 49, faced serious domestic violence allegations – but all charges have been dropped. File image. Picture: iStock

Prosecutor Emma Hogan previously told the court the woman was fearful to talk to officers when she attended Ballina District Hospital’s emergency department.

But Mr Roberts was found not guilty of all charges on July 19.

The court is now due to hear a costs determination on December 8.