By Paul Millar
A DRUG addict with an extensive criminal history and facing court in connection with the disappearance of Leopold’s Paul Kingsbury was as an unacceptable risk for bail, a magistrate has ruled.
John Nelis, 31, is facing charges of kidnap, three counts of false imprisonment and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Nelis was dressed in a dark suit, his hair closely cropped hair and with a stringy tail, when the bail hearing was told he had committed to staying with his mother if granted bail on a $69,000 surety.
But Magistrate Ann McGarvie said he could interfere with witnesses if bailed.
Geelong Magistrates Court heard that Neils had a long list of prior convictions, including the use of violence and failing to answer bail.
“He has also been a drug addict for at least four years and is allegedly addicted to ice,’’ the magistrate said.
“He has a history of failing to comply with court orders.’’
Ms McGavie believed police had reasonable grounds indicating that Nelis was connected to the disappearance of Mr Kingsbury.
Mr Kingsbury, a 27-year-old father of one, was last seen in Larkins Lne, Moolap, in the early hours of 6 July. Police believe he was abducted and murdered but have been unable to find his body.
Nelis was on the run from police for weeks before his arrest in Fairbairn Dve, Corio.
“It appears it was pure luck that police were able to apprehend him on September 9,’’ Ms McGarvie said.
“I’m satisfied that he’s an unacceptable risk to meet with bail conditions.’’
Nelis is the second person charged over the disappearance of Mr Kingsbury.
