Man who allegedly switched real QR code for fake one wants charges thrown out

A man who allegedly switched a real QR code for a fake one at a shopping centre has asked in court for charges against him to be dropped.

The South Australian man who allegedly placed a fake QR code in front of a real one at a shopping centre has asked for the charges against him to be dropped.

Colin Mark Davies, 51, was charged with two counts of obstructing emergency management operations after he allegedly propped the fake code in front of the legitimate Covid-19 check in at Franco's Fruit and Veg in the Adelaide suburb of South Plympton on April 25.

Police later allegedly found a double-sided knife in his Edwardstown home and was further charged with possessing a prohibited weapon.

During his hearing in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday, Mr Davies — who was unrepresented — asked Magistrate Christopher Smolicz if he could provide a written affidavit in relation to the charges against him, which he said he didn’t understand.

He said he was also seeking to have the charges against him withdrawn.

The police prosecutor told the court he needed some time to read the handwritten affidavit but was clear the charges would not be withdrawn.

Magistrate Smolicz continued to question the defendant about the purpose of the affidavit.

“To inform the prosecutor and yourself, you honour, of my standing against this,” Mr Davies replied.

“I think the charges should be dismissed … on the basis I have been not been provided with certified, verified cause of action.”

Colin Mark Davies was charged after he allegedly placed a fake QR code in front of a real one at Franco's Fruit and Veg in South Plympton in April. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Kelly Barnes

The accused asked to read his affidavit aloud so it was “read into the record”, which was declined.

“I thought I had a right because this is an office of public opinion and record,” Mr Davies said.

The magistrate said it had already been given to the police, that it would be discussed in his next appearance and that there was not enough time for it to be read aloud.

SA Police reassured the public that no personal data had been released through the fake QR codes.

“Any person found to be tampering or obstructing with business QR codes will likely face arrest and court penalty of up to $10,000,” it said in a statement at the time of the incident.

Under Mr Davies’ bail conditions, he cannot attend the South Plympton shopping centre or possess any loose QR code labels.

He made no comment as he left the court and is due to reappear in August.