IUSI Afele, the man accused of murdering Steven Michael Chesworth in Rocket Street last week, has again been refused bail.
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Afele, 40, was charged after police responded to a triple zero call at 8.26am last Tuesday following a report of a disturbance at a block of units.
When police and paramedics arrived they found a 49-year-old man with a stab wound to the chest. Despite the best efforts of paramedics and police, Mr Chesworth died from his injuries.
Police arrested Afele at the scene.
He was charged with murder late Tuesday afternoon.
During yesterday’s brief mention, Afele appeared via audio visual linkup (AVL) before Magistrate Michael Allen.
It was noted it was the first time Afele had appeared before the local court. The original bail court hearing was before the registrar last Wednesday morning.
Afele’s solicitor Leigh Haywood sought brief orders be made, with Mr Allen ordering the brief be served by April 22 for reply in Bathurst Local Court on May 6.
No application for bail was made by Afele, and Mr Allen formally refused it.
Speaking via AVL, Mr Allen asked Afele if he could hear the proceedings, to which he replied “yes sir”.
Mr Allen explained to Afele what was happening: that the statements from witnesses on which police are relying will be served on his solicitor on April 22, and then at some stage between then and May 6 his solicitor will be in contact with him regarding the material.
Afele simply said “thank you”.
The matter was then adjourned to the Bathurst Local Court on May 6.
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