POLICE fear the actions of Lavington man John Andrew Smith towards two women, their children and the community may be life threatening, a court heard yesterday.
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Smith appeared in custody in Albury Local Court and tendered police facts indicated his threats against individuals had been escalating.
Magistrate Tony Murray was told Smith has an extensive criminal history in four states, including NSW and Victoria.
Smith, 53, of Mair Street, Lavington, appeared in custody on two counts of damaging property and four counts of intimidation.
Police prosecutor Sgt Andrew Pike opposed bail and said Smith had a long history of violence and breaking court orders.
But solicitor Tim Hemsley said Smith claimed allegations made against him were out of proportion to what had actually happened.
Mr Murray remanded Smith in custody and adjourned the charges until next week.
The court was told Smith startled a woman living nearby about 12.45am on June 29 and asked for a ride to North Albury.
He had an aluminium package under his arm and the woman asked what it was.
“It’s a bomb,” he replied and the woman said she was not taking him anywhere.
“It’s not a bomb. It’s dope. I need to go to North Albury,” he said.
The woman took him to his destination, but had since been harassed and threatened.
She had sought support from a neighbour who had also been threatened.