Hoani Kevin Charles Paku: Man accused of pursuit and ramming police car gets bail as negotiations underway

A man who claims police unnecessarily rammed his car has been granted bail while negotiations are underway for reckless driving and pursuit charges. Hoani Kevin Charles Paku, 38, appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court via video link from Greenough Regional Prison on Friday after his lawyer previously argued his charges were caused by the police officer’s own actions. His bail application was adjourned so the magistrate could review the CCTV and body-worn camera footage. Defence lawyer Karen Ward previously told the court it was disputed if the officer’s actions were lawful on May 20, when Mr Paku is accused of colliding with a police car in a driveway in Utakarra. The 38-year-old was charged with failing to stop after damaging property, failing to stop, damaging property and reckless driving to escape pursuit. He pleaded not guilty on July 15. In court on Friday, police prosecutor Sen. Const. Thomas Potts said police had changed their position on bail and negotiations were underway in relation to some of the charges. He said police no longer opposed bail but requested certain conditions be put in place, including drug and alcohol testing. Magistrate Matthew Walton said the change in position affected his decision considerably and granted bail. Mr Paku must reside at a Wandina address, report to the police station three times a week, comply with directions and cannot consume drugs or alcohol. He is subject to a $1000 personal undertaking and is next due in court on Thursday, August 15.