Former top cop Neil Mellon returns to court in relation to Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson fatal crash

A highly decorated former Territory cop accused of involvement in a major crash conspiracy has had his bail altered, with one name removed from his non-contact list.

A highly decorated Territory cop accused of tampering with a major helicopter crash investigation has successfully had a name removed from his non-contact list.

Former Acting Senior Sergeant Neil Mellon, 47, has been charged on 35 offences following a fatal crash earlier this year, but has now been allowed contact with a potential employer.

It is alleged Mellon interfered in the investigation of the crash that killed popular Outback Wrangler cast member Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, 34, on February 28.

Helicopter pilot Sebastian Robinson, 28, was critically injured following the crash in West Arnhem Land.

In court, Mellon’s lawyer Sally Ozlins successfully argued to have his bail altered to allow the former policeman to travel without legal aid.

She also had one name, Simon Hoar, successfully removed from his court ordered no-contact list for potential employment purposes on his cattle station.

Mellon, an officer of 27 years, was arrested on August 25 while walking into work at the Darwin Police Station.

Neil Mellon leaves the Darwin Local Court.

He was hit with 33 charges including gaining benefit by unlawfully accessing data, obtaining benefit by deception and disclosure of confidential information.

The Crown issued further charges on October 19 alleging Mellon attempted to pervert the course of justice, destroyed evidence and made a false declaration.

The large list of names on the non-contact list includes Mellon’s co-accused and the Remote Helicopters Australia director and chief pilot Mick Burbidge.

However, she was unsuccessful in having Keith Phelps removed from the list after catching the prosecution by surprise in making the request.

“There are a large number of names that my client is prohibited from contacting,” Ms Ozlins said.

“We ask Simon Hoar be removed from the list, he is a potential employer for Mr Mellon, and his cattle station provides potential employment for Mr Mellon.

“In respect to Mr Phelps he has some prospective employment for my client.

“He was not an eyewitness, if you like, to any of these events and he has already provided a statement in relation to these proceedings.”

Former NT Police Tactical Response Group Sergeant Neil Mellon has been awarded Australian Police Medals for his service over the years. Picture: Justin Kennedy

Mellon’s other charges relate to a police raid of his home which allegedly uncovered further illegal items including wildlife, fireworks and firearms.

He was also charged with failing to meet firearm storage requirements.

The former police officer was supported in court by former Indigenous Affairs Minister and Northern Territory senator Nigel Scullion.

Mellon’s next date in the Darwin Local Court is on December 7, but he has been excused from attending.