Bail for 21-year-old man accused of indecent assault in Albany nightclub

A 21-year-old man allegedly indecently assaulted a young woman inside Albany’s nightclub last weekend. Albany detectives have charged Joel Meltevielser with one count of unlawful and indecent assault. Police will allege Mr Meltevielser assaulted a woman in her 20s inside Studio 146 last Sunday. The accused, who police say is a Vanuatu national residing in backpacker accommodation in Albany, was arrested on Monday and appeared in Albany Magistrates Court on Tuesday. A Bislama interpreter translated for Magistrate Dianne Scaddan after the man told the court he only understood a “little English and French”. Lawyer Graeme Payne asked the court to adjourn his matters for further legal advice and to consider granting bail. Police prosecutor Sgt Dave Loverock did not oppose bail as long as conditions were imposed. The court was told Mr Meltevielser was working at an abattoir on a sponsored visa. He was granted bail on the basis he lived at the backpackers and was on a curfew from 7pm to 4.30am. He was also prohibited from entering any licensed premises such as pubs, clubs and bars. Mr Meltevielser is due back in court on October 7. Police investigations into the matter are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.