Nathanial Richard Charles Fernando accused of violent home invasion could have case delayed up to a year

The 18-year-old was charged in December 2023 and held in custody but DNA evidence could take up to a year to complete.

The case against an 18-year-old Toowoomba man accused of a violent home invasion in which a sawn-off rifle was allegedly brandished could be delayed by more than a year until DNA evidence is completed.

Nathaniel Richard Charles Fernando and a 17-year-old juvenile boy are accused of entering a Meringandan West home through a rear laundry door where they were confronted by the 28-year-old homeowner about 2.45am, October 16, 2023.

Police claim the homeowner was struck with a piece of furniture during the incident before the alleged intruders left in a 4WD.

Mr Fernando has been held in custody since his initial appearance in court in December 2023 and was not required to be in court on Friday, February 9, when his case was mentioned.

A Toowoomba court has been told that DNA testing related to a teenager’s case could take up to another year to complete.

His solicitor Alysha Jacobsen, of Bouchier Khan Lawyers, told the court the defence was still waiting for a number of items from the police including medical reports and the DNA results.

Police prosecutor Rowan Brewster-Webb said some of that material would be available soon but his office had been informed the DNA report might not be available until April 2025.

Ms Jacobsen said if her office could have the other material the case may be able to be moved forward but the DNA report would be required when the matter gets to the higher court.

Mr Fernando has not as yet been required to enter any pleas to his charges which include armed robbery with violence and in company, entering a dwelling with intent by break at night in company and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

Magistrate Mark Howden remanded Mr Fernando in custody and adjourned the charges for mention back in the same court on March 1.