Robert Gary Burns: Geraldton man remanded in custody for domestic violence against partner

A Geraldton man with a long history of domestic violence against the same victim has been remanded in custody for assaulting his partner after his bid for bail was opposed. Robert Gary Burns, 33, appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court from custody on Friday, after he was arrested the day before for breaching a police order and aggravated common assault, pleading guilty to both charges. Police prosecutor Sergeant Ross Gray told the court police opposed bail because of Burns’ lengthy list of domestic violence offences that ranged from common to aggravated assault. Mr Gray said these offences were all committed against the same victim and that Burns had a history of breaching police orders, with the most recent coming in June, along with a lengthy list of failing to comply with police orders. “Opposing bail due to the risk of further offences to the same victim,” Sgt Gray said. Defence lawyer Sabrina Maine suggested an immediate term of imprisonment was not suitable, citing how Burns entered pleas of guilty at the earliest opportunity. Ms Maine said Burns had been in contact with a psychologist and “he wants a break from his partner to assist him with getting a clear head and address the underlying concerns.” Magistrate Angus Hockton said his concern was to keep Burns away from the victim. He considered home detention, but remanded Burns in custody for two weeks so they could receive a home detention report. Burns will be back in court on July 27 for the home detention report. 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)