Albany man charged over incidents involving an axe and a knife

An Albany man who allegedly entered a car dealership with a knife then damaged a car with an axe at another business has been denied bail. Caleb Zachary Edward Banks, 30, appeared in Albany Magistrate’s Court last Thursday after being arrested for allegedly taking an axe to a car and breaching bail conditions on June 16. He was on bail at the time for charges of trespassing and being armed in a way that may cause fear as a result of an incident at a car dealership on June 10. Police prosecutor Sergeant Alan Dean told the court Mr Banks entered the Albany Autos showroom at 4.15pm on June 10, carrying a 25cm orange knife. He demanded to speak to his ex-partner’s boyfriend, with witnesses describing him “shouting and behaving in a concerning manner”, Sgt Dean said. He was arrested by police that afternoon and released on protective bail conditions. Less than a week later, at 11am on June 16, Mr Banks was allegedly carrying an axe when he approached a Ford Falcon sedan parked on Albert Street, the court was told. Mr Banks swung the axe a number of times causing damage to the spoiler. Later that day, he allegedly breached protective bail conditions when he attended his ex-partner’s workplace, causing her to hide. Sgt Dean opposed bail and said there were “some concerns relating to his mental health”. Defence lawyer Graeme Payne said Mr Banks recognised he was struggling with mental health issues. “He is blaming his ex-girl-friend and her new partner for a lot of the problems he is experiencing,” he said. Magistrate Dianne Scaddan said she could not be satisfied bail conditions ensured the safety of the protected people. Mr Banks will remain in custody until his next court appearance on July 1.