A man accused of stealing more than 1,000 items from museums over a nine-year period in New South Wales will remain on remand after being denied bail.
Key points:
- Police say three trucks were required to transport the allegedly stolen items seized in raids this year
- Mark Ian Anderson is also accused of being in possession of significant quantities of cannabis and amphetamines
- Mr Anderson’s lawyer told the court his client had been menaced by inmates while on remand, but bail was denied
Mark Ian Anderson, 45, appeared by video link in Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday facing 33 charges relating to break-and-enters in the Illawarra and drug possession.
Police facts tendered to the court during Mr Anderson’s bail review allege he stole more than 1,000 items, including antiques, from 2014.
The museums included Bateman’s Bay Museum, Pioneer Village Museum, Robertson Heritage Railway, Windellama Progress Association Hall, and Milton Millhouse Art Gallery.
Police allege Mr Anderson stole “irreplaceable heritage items” for his own pleasure.
“These items are not suitable for disposal for financial gain and it is alleged he stole items for his own collection and gratification,” the documents tendered to court said.
Police arrested Mr Anderson on August 3 and conducted three searches at different properties, including Mr Anderson’s Fishermans Paradise property.
Three trucks were required to transport the items that were seized.
Police allegedly discovered wooden replicas of the Robertson railway museum, a model of Robertson railway precinct, two vintage milk containers, World War II spotlights and a Colt .36 antique pistol.
Mr Robertson allegedly cut through fences and broke padlocks to carry out his “planned and sophisticated” thefts, the court heard.
Police stated the items held no value due to their age.
Police also allegedly seized 4.5 kilograms of cannabis and indictable quantities of amphetamines.
Mr Anderson is also accused of stealing power tools, go-karts, motorbikes and a boat from several properties in the Illawarra.
‘Stood over’ in Silverwater
The court heard officers from Strike Force Hornseywood intercepted phone calls in which Mr Anderson allegedly told his brother he planned to sell some of the items.
Defence lawyer Michael Bowe said a $50,000 surety could be offered to the court to guarantee Mr Anderson’s future court appearances.
Mr Bowe told the court Mr Anderson had suffered lung and back injuries that led to the collapse of his business.
“His body is falling apart,” Mr Bowe said.
Mr Bowe told the court Mr Anderson had assisted during bushfires in the region and had helped women and children in domestic violence situations.
“He’s exceptionally desperate to get his life back together,” Mr Bowe said.
He said Mr Anderson had been attacked in prison.
“He was stood over by five prisoners who took his items — as a result he’s been put into protective custody in Silverwater,” Mr Bowe said.
Magistrate Michael Ong denied bail and said the prosecution’s case appeared to be strong.
Mr Anderson will face court again on October 3.
