Michael Reid Steele loses bail bid after failing to appear in Gympie court

A farm worker facing stalking and drugs charges has been remanded in custody after repeatedly failing to turn up for court.

Michael Reid Steele, 29, faced Gympie Magistrates Court after failing to appear at a May 8, 2023 court date over stalking and drug charges.

A Gympie ginger picker accused of stalking will remain in custody on remand after repeatedly failing to turn up to court over the charges.

Michael Reid Steele, 29, faced Gympie Magistrates Court by videolink on Friday, July 28, over his ongoing failure to appear at scheduled court dates.

He had originally been granted bail on March 13, 2023 after being charged with stalking threatening violence, possessing dangerous drugs, and possessing drug utensils.

The court was told he then failed to show up at his next scheduled appearance on May 8.

A warrant was issued a week later, and he was subsequently arrested and charged with failing to appear.

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Michael Reid Steele’s application for bail was rejected by Gympie magistrate Raelene Ellis, who said the only times Mr Steele had turned up in court was when he was in custody.

Mr Steele, who was supported in the courtroom by his father, sought bail over the charge.

His application was opposed by police prosecutor Vicki Kennedy-Grills, who said existing rules put in place for Mr Steele when he was first given bail had not worked.

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Mr Steele, who the court heard worked as a small crop food picker, sat quietly with his head in his hands while magistrate Raelene Ellis deliberated before finally refusing him bail.

“The only time he has appeared in court is when he’s in custody,” Ms Ellis said.

Mr Steele will return to court on Monday, August 28, 2023.

Originally published as Michael Reid Steele loses bail bid after failing to appear in Gympie court