Justin Bennis, Michelle Blackwell accused of 90-minute Bulli siege

The case against a duo allegedly involved in a 90-minute police standoff in Illawarra’s north, forcing the lockdown of two childcare centres, was formally before the court for the first time.

The two people alleged to be involved in a siege that caused two childcare centres in Illawarra’s north to go into lockdown have had their matters mentioned in court.

Justin Maxwell Bennis, 38, is yet to enter a plea for nine charges relating to the incident on Friday, October 7.

The charges against the Bulli man include three counts of harassing a police officer in execution of duty, two counts of resisting a police officer in the execution of duty, attempting to stalk/intimidate and intend to cause fear of harm.

He is also charged with using a machete with a 40cm blade to prevent lawful detention, using a weapon contrary to a prohibition order and being armed with intent to commit indictable offence.

The matters were mentioned in Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday. Picture: Steven Bell

Bennis’ co-accused, Michelle Kathrine Blackwell, pleaded not guilty to being armed with an intent to commit an indictable offence, assaulting a police officer, using an offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention and three counts of resisting or hindering a police officer in the execution of duty.

Police were called to Point St, Bulli about 4pm along with paramedics and Fire and Rescue NSW personnel.

Nearby Point Street Early Learning Centre and Sandon Point Children’s Centre were locked down for 90 minutes before the police were able to apprehend the accused shortly after 5.30pm.

The 51-year-old Bulli woman will remain on bail before returning to Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday, December 6, while Bennis will be back on Tuesday, November 1.