Australasian biker news
 
AUSTRALASIAN BIKER NEWS

Home Bike News Rides Other Stuff Events Tech Links Adults Only

Bikies to fight consorting charge in court

Lisa Davies

June 27, 2012

Jamie Zammit enters Downing Centre Local Court. Photo: Kate Geraghty

Four senior members of the Nomads bikie gang will fight charges of consorting, entering pleas of not guilty in court today in the first test of the new laws.

Jamie Zammit, who the Herald understands is the Sydney president of the club, his deputy Sleiman Tajjour, and full club members Justin Hawthorne and David Brannan, were all represented in the Downing Centre Local Court this morning, with not guilty pleas entered on their behalf to a string of offences.

The consorting legislation, which came into effect last month and is separate from anti-bikie laws thrown out by the High Court last year, means anyone can face up to three years in jail for communicating with convicted criminals.

Jamie Zammit gestures as he leaves court.

Jamie Zammit gestures as he leaves court. Photo: Kate Geraghty

The laws apply to association in person, or via telephone, email or Facebook.

Tajjour and Zammit were arrested at a Pemulwuy address last month, having both allegedly been given a warning by police for consorting - the minimum requirement under the law.

Hawthorne was charged five days afterwards and accused of consorting with Tajjour at the same address, while Brannan was arrested for consorting with Tajjour and Zammit at a Merrylands address.

Police Prosecutor Daniel McMahon told the court all matters would be prosecuted together, asking for three weeks to serve the remainder of the brief.

Tajjour, 31, was not at court, his solicitor Simon Joyner presenting a medical certificate to the registrar excusing his attendance.

Zammit's lawyer Michael Croak asked his client be excused on the next occasion, if legally represented.

The case was adjourned to July 18.

Back

Hit Counter