Benjamin Ashley: Young Newcastle man applies for bail variation to celebrate 21st birthday with family

A young man who’s banned from all licensed premises across the state after a drunken night out has applied for a bail variation in order to attend his 21st birthday party. Find out what happened.

A young Newcastle man banned from all licensed premises across the state applied for a bail variation this week to allow him to celebrate his 21st with friends and family.

Benjamin Ashley, 20, appeared in Dubbo Local Court on Wednesday, supported by family members, following his arrest outside a pub in Dubbo on July 17.

He was hit with two charges after he allegedly refused to listen to officers, including continuing intoxicated behaviour after a move on direction and resist or hinder police in the execution of duty.

Ben Ashley appeared in Dubbo Local Court yesterday, pleading not guilty to two charges. Picture: Instagram

The court heard from Ashley’s lawyer Simon Long via video link who submitted not guilty pleas to both charges, as he made an application for bail variation on behalf of his client.

Since being arrested, Ashley was prohibited from entering all licensed premises, however with a 21st birthday arranged in Newcastle by his parents, Mr Long appealed to Magistrate Stephen Olischlager to amend the current condition.

Mr Long told the court that Ashley has “family flying in from all over the state,” as well as from Queensland and police prosecutor Mr Lang did not oppose the submission.

While accepting the difficult circumstances surrounding Ashley’s birthday party this Saturday, Mr Olischlager said “rather than a deletion” of the current condition, he believed it was necessary to impose a one-day suspension.

Mr Olischlager ultimately granted the bail variation, suspending the place restriction for September 3 only.

Ashley is excused from the next appearance in court on October 19 for brief service orders.