Shepparton Magistrates’ Court: A Cobram man allegedly lit bushfires to threaten neighbours

A Cobram man has been hauled before court after being accused of lighting bushfires at a popular tourist destination in an attempt to threaten his neighbours.

Mr Binotto will next face Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on November 21, 2023.

A Cobram man allegedly started bushfires in an attempt to threaten his neighbours, a court has heard.

John Binotto faced Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on October 17 after he allegedly lit bushfires on July 22, 2023 at popular tourist destination Thompson’s Beach in Cobram.

John Binotto allegedly lit bushfires to threaten his neighbours in Cobram.

Cobram detective Senior Constable Ryall said Mr Binotto was a threat to “innocent residents who live in proximity to the accused.”

Defence lawyer Anthony Coote pushed for Mr Binotto to be granted bail.

Mr Coote believed that the “smouldering” fires were not substantial enough to cause damage, citing a CFA expert report that said it was unlikely to cause a major bushfire.

Mr Coote also said there were concerns around his client’s mental health, who was “illiterate” and “can’t read.”

Magistrate Marita Altman denied Mr Binotto bail.

“There’s an unacceptable risk that Mr Binotto would commit an offence while on bail, given his history.”

Mr Binotto is on bail for the alleged possession and use of methamphetamines.

Mr Binotto will next face the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on November 21, 2023.