Teen in court over crime spree linked to Mitcham fatal
A TEENAGER with a tattoo of his own name across his arm appeared in court over his alleged role in the hit-and-run death a Melbourne motorcyclist.
A TEENAGER branding his own name across his arm has appeared in court over his role in a crime rampage that claimed the life of motorcyclist Keith Stevens.
His lawyer told the court he is vulnerable in jail due to his youth and a mental health diagnosis.
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Tommy Merrall, 18, of Berwick, appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court dressed in a T-shirt depicting a full beer glass and the word “Pint”.
His name “Merrall” was tattooed across his arm.
Mr Stevens, 33, died in hospital last Thursday after he was hit and dragged 85 metres by a stolen black BMW at the intersection of Glenburnie Road and Orient Avenue in Mitcham the previous day.
The teen faces a swag of charges, including aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, home invasion, attempted home invasion and various thefts.
Police allege Mr Merrall stole a BMW X5 station wagon worth $55,000 and a Camry worth $5000 on the day Mr Stevens was run down on his motorcycle.
He has also been charged with stealing jewellery, wallets, watches, phones and other property worth about $10,000 from a Caulfield North property.
Mr Merrall stole another $3000 worth of items from a home in Toorak, police claim.
The day after the tragedy, Mr Merrall allegedly continued his crime rampage, breaking into a building at Doncaster East and stealing $5000 worth of property.
He then stole a VW Golf worth about $60,000.
Mr Merrall, who appeared to be sporting an injury to his face, sat quietly during his brief hearing.
He did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody until Tuesday when he will front court again.
The court heard he hoped to be transferred to youth detention where several of his co-accused are being held.
His Victoria Legal Aid appointed lawyer Plern Chaya told the court he had concerns for Mr Merrall’s welfare in jail.
Originally published as Teen in court over crime spree linked to Mitcham fatal