The man who allegedly burnt down his Wahgunyah home to take revenge on his wife for ending their relationship has been released on bail, despite police fears for community safety.
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Michael Schindler, 57, had been in custody, charged with criminal damage by fire, since his arrest on Friday – the day after police conducted an air and ground search for him over alleged arson.
He told Wodonga Detective Sergeant Graeme Simpfendorfer the fire was an accident, but the officer said that response did not match up with police evidence.
Investigators found seven points of fire, including fuel poured across the rear bedroom and on top of a piano.
The insurance company estimated the damage of the house and contents was valued at about $500,000.
“Witnesses identified (Schindler) walking away immediately after they saw smoke,” Detective Simpfendorfer told Wodonga Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
“The residence is completely destroyed, there’s nothing left.”
He said the fire was allegedly lit in the weeks after Schindler had split from his wife, who he had spoken to over the phone saying: “I can’t believe what I’m about to do, you leave me no choice”.
Police also allege Schindler broke into his former partner’s Albury home to steal items that were eventually burnt in the fire.
“He’s a risk to himself, he’s a risk to his former partner … It’s fortunate on this occasion no other houses caught fire as well,” Detective Simpfendorfer said.
Police opposed bail but solicitor Mario Vaccaro said the risks could be managed if Schindler lived with his elderly parents in Wahgunyah.
“This was a spur of the moment incident, which he regrets greatly,” he said.
“He had been off his (depression) medication for two weeks prior to this incident.
“He’s now back on the medication and is feeling a lot better for it.”
Magistrate Stella Stuthrudge said in granting bail, she took in account the fact Schindler had no criminal history, had strong family support, and there was likely to be a long delay before the case is eventually heard in the County Court.
She ordered he stay away from the gutted house, not visit Albury or contact his former partner, and immediately seek mental health treatment.
“I don’t think there are flight-risk issues, it’s really about making sure he’s monitored and not drinking alcohol,” Ms Stuthridge said.
“This is a very serious destruction of joint property and it comes in the context of something that has the flavour of domestic violence.”
