Echuca crime: Brett Atkinson accused of committing two burglaries

An Echuca man has been granted “one final opportunity” by a magistrate after he allegedly broke into a business and home.

Brett Atkinson is alleged to have broken into Drovers Saddlery in Echuca on September 25.

An Echuca man accused of breaking into a business and home has been afforded “one final opportunity” by a magistrate.

Brett Atkinson, 44, successfully applied for bail in Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on Friday after he was taken into custody charged with burglary.

Detective Sergeant Barry Gray from the Campaspe criminal investigation unit said Atkinson allegedly broke into an Echuca business and home.

Mr Gray said Atkinson allegedly broke into Drovers Saddlery in Echuca on September 25 this year.

Police will allege Atkinson entered by forcing open the front door and moving to the service desk and opening multiple draws.

He is accused of taking a cash float of about $250 and sunglasses valued at $600.

Mr Gray said forensic analysis of blood left at the scene had identified Atkinson as a “contributor” to the offending.

Atkinson is then alleged to have broken into an Annesley St property in Echuca on Sunday, November 7.

It is alleged he entered the house after removing a window when the resident was not home.

Multiple bags, international currency and an iPhone were allegedly taken.

Fingerprints taken at the scene allegedly connect Atkinson to the property.

Prosecutors said no items had been uncovered thus far in their investigations.

Mr Gray said Atkinson’s record included 482 previous charges including offences while on bail.

Magistrate David Faram described the application as “finely balanced” between the two parties.

He said the police case was “reasonably strong with further work to be done”.

“I’m prepared to give Mr Atkinson one final opportunity,” he said.

Atkinson’s conditions of bail include a curfew.

The matter will return to court at a later date.

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