A man will appear at court today charged with intimidation and driving in a dangerous manner following a suspected bias-related incident in the Illawarra yesterday.
About 12.45pm (Sunday 7 April 2019), police were called to Bulli Tops Lookout on the Princes Highway, Bulli, following reports a man had verbally abused a large family group, who were picnicking at the location.
Police were told the man then got into his car and drove circles around the group, which included young children, before driving off.
Witnesses reported the man had made bias-related threats throughout the incident.
As officers from Wollongong Police District arrived at the location, the man returned, and was driving around the car park when he was stopped and arrested.
During a search of the man's vehicle, police located and seized a hammer and a boxcutter.
The 43-year-old man was taken to Wollongong Police Station where he was charged with intimidation and drive manner dangerous.
He was refused bail and is due to appear in Wollongong Local Court today (Monday 8 April 2019).
Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Chris Craner, said police do not tolerate any behaviour that disturbs peace in the community.
"There is no place for any type of intimidation, abuse, or violence in New South Wales and I encourage the community to contact us to ensure every instance can be investigated," Supt Craner said.
"The safety of the community is our priority, and the NSW Police Force continues to work closely with all community groups to make sure not only are they safe – they feel safe."
Supt Craner urged anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to police to come forward.
"Our investigation is continuing, and given yesterday's weather, we know the lookout was busy, so we'd like to speak with anyone who may have been in the area at the time.
"In particular, we'd been keen to speak with anyone who has dashcam or mobile phone vision. Information can even be provided confidentially through Crime Stoppers," Supt Craner said.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
