Mark Barford makes third bail application after allegedly placing loaded gun under Christmas tree

It is alleged a bikie who wrapped up a loaded gun and placed it under a Christmas tree then ordered his son to hide the weapon in an unusual place.

Alleged bikie Mark Barford made his third application for bail in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Picture: FacebookSource:Supplied

An alleged bikie wrapped a loaded handgun to pass it off as a present under his Christmas tree, a court has heard.

Mark Barford, who police say is a member of the Descendants outlaw motorcycle gang, was caught after officers attempted to serve him with a firearms prohibition order in December last year.

It is alleged they heard Barford tell his son, Adam, to hide the wrapped gun in the S-bend of the toilet of their home at Modbury North, north of the Adelaide CBD.

Officers also allegedly located methamphetamine, ammunition, an expandable baton and crossbow hidden at the property.

The pair was arrested and charged with multiple offences, and both faced the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

While Adam Barford, 19, has been released on bail, his father remains behind bars and appeared in court by video link.

Adam Barford has been released on bail but his co-accused, Mark Barford, remains behind bars. Picture: Kathryn Bermingham/NCA NewsWire

Adam Barford has been released on bail but his co-accused, Mark Barford, remains behind bars. Picture: Kathryn Bermingham/NCA NewsWireSource:Supplied

Alleged bikie Mark Barford has been behind bars since December last year. Picture: Facebook

Alleged bikie Mark Barford has been behind bars since December last year. Picture: FacebookSource:Supplied

Despite two earlier failed applications, defence counsel Nick Vadasz said Mark Barford, 57, should also be released.

Mr Vadasz said his client’s explanation is “nowhere near as sinister as the prosecution wishes to accept”.

“Whilst he has been painted as a member of an outlaw motorbike gang, he has had a lifelong interest in motorbikes, he’s never been in trouble, he was in full-time employment his entire life, (a) family man.

 

“You’re dealing with a person who is being treated for serious psychological issues.”

Mr Vadasz said Mark Barford’s physical health was also deteriorating, and he could not be adequately treated for issues including arthritis, a knee injury and nerve damage in prison.

But a prosecutor told the court Barford was a prescribed applicant, meaning he would need to prove special circumstances in order to be granted bail.

Magistrate David McLeod ordered a home detention bail report. The case will come before the court again early next month.