Six men face court charged with flouting new COVID-19 laws

Six men have appeared in court accused of breaching COVID-19 laws by failing to comply with public health directions.

A MAN accused of waiting for a bus and another man police claimed was sprung at Big W were among six people called to court on Friday over alleged breaches of COVID-19 laws.

Scores of Tasmanians have already been charged with failing to comply with a direction from the Director of Public Health since the emergency legislation was introduced in March.

Warrane man Luke Basil Latham, 36, appeared in the Hobart Magistrates Court via video link after he allegedly flouted requirements for Tasmanians to remain at home on April 7 by attending Big W at Eastlands.

Magistrate Robert Webster said it was unsure whether the prosecution would proceed with the charge.

Also in court via video link was Todd Andrew Graham, 43, facing three failure to comply charges.

According to court documents, Mr Graham breached non-essential travel rules when he was allegedly caught at a Bridgewater bus stop on April 14.

A man alledgedly flouted COVID-19 laws by waiting for a bus. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

Jake Mark Pearce also appeared via video link before Mr Webster, pleading not guilty to an allegation he breached rules to remain at his “primary residence” at Maydena on April 15.

Mr Latham will return to court on May 27, while Mr Graham and Mr Pearce will return on June 16.

Under the Public Health and Emergency Management Acts, failing to comply with a lawful requirement or direction of an authorised officer is punishable with fines up to $16,800 or imprisonment not exceeding six months.