A MAGISTRATE has rejected a call to stand aside for “perceived bias” over a weeping witness in the Gold Coast bikie brawl trial.
Defence barrister Geoff Foster today asked magistrate Michael Quinn to remove himself from presiding over the trial of Bandidos bikie Peter Mauric, who has pleaded not guilty to rioting during the 2013 brawl.
On Wednesday, waitress Natika Birmingham - who was working in the Aura Tapas and Lounge Bar where the brawl erupted - broke down in tears in the witness box under cross-examination by Mr Foster.
Mr Quinn ordered Mr Foster to finish his cross-examination after she began crying.
Today, the barrister said Mr Quinn’s comment to a bailiff after court adjourned was “very concerning” and he should stand aside because of “perceived bias”.
He also raised other concerns, including what he said could be a perception that the magistrate was siding with police.
Mr Quinn said his comment to the bailiff was “low-grade” and of “no consequence”.
He said he was satisfied there was no bias or “apprehended bias” and that he would continue to preside over the trial.
The trial was adjourned until Monday.