Gavin Corson: Catalina man allegedly broke into Batehaven Bakehouse
A south coast man who allegedly broke into a cafe and stole cash has argued with the courts over the definition of the law, saying he technically didn’t break in as the door was unlocked.
The South Coast News
Don't miss out on the headlines from The South Coast News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A man who allegedly broke into a well-known south coast cafe, stealing more than $1000, has argued over the definition of the law, saying he technically didn’t break into the business as the door was unlocked.
The incident saw Gavin Corson, 32, wind up in Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday, charged with break and enter dwelling to commit indictable offence.
On Monday, Corson’s lawyer, Wayne Boom, initially pleaded guilty on his client’s behalf, however the plea was quickly withdrawn after a discussion in the courtroom.
“I didn’t break in but,” Corson said via video link from the South Coast Correctional Centre.
“The door was unlocked”.
Police allege Corson broke into the Batehaven Bakehouse storeroom on the afternoon of June 25 this year, where he allegedly stole $1677.
Corson was arrested following investigations, however during the arrest police discovered the 32-year-old was serving two intensive correction orders at the time of the alleged burglary, resulting in a refusal of bail the next day in the Batemans Bay Local Court.
In the same court on Monday, Corson’s lawyer said there would need to be an adjournment for “lengthy conversations” after Corson’s statements.
“Obviously, I am going to need to discuss with my client,” he said.
Corson spoke up again, this time saying the charge should be downgraded.
“I didn’t actually break in anywhere,” he said.
“It was unlocked, I just walked in.”
However, Magistrate Doug Dick disagreed.
“If there’s a closed door and it’s opened and you’re not supposed to be there, that’s a break in,” he said.
The matter was adjourned to July 15, to allow discussions between Mr Boom and Corson.
“I’m sorry if I’ve made it harder, I just want to do whatever’s easiest,” Corson said.
Got a news tip? Email us at tom.mcgann@news.com.au
Man denies running down, killing mates in joke gone wrong
A driver accused of drunkenly running down and killing his two mates in a joke gone wrong on State of Origin night has entered pleas to his charges more than a year after the deaths.
Industrial park, office and cafe approved for coastal hamlet
A massive industrial park has been approved for a NSW south coast town, with plans showcasing a warehouse, office spaces and more. Take a look at the plans.