A man has admitted to creating a bomb scare at Glendale Shopping Centre, which resulted in the evacuation of the premises and a significant police operation. The incident, which occurred earlier this year, caused widespread panic and disruption among shoppers and staff.
Guilty Plea Entered in Court
The accused, whose identity has not been disclosed due to legal reasons, appeared before Newcastle Local Court on Tuesday. He pleaded guilty to one count of making a false statement concerning a dangerous thing, specifically a bomb. The court heard that the man had called the shopping centre's management, claiming that a bomb had been placed inside the building.
Evacuation and Police Response
Following the threat, security personnel immediately evacuated the shopping centre, which was filled with customers and employees. Police arrived at the scene and conducted a thorough search of the premises, but no explosive device was found. The evacuation caused significant disruptions, with many businesses forced to close for several hours.
The man was arrested shortly after the incident and has been in custody since. During the court hearing, his lawyer argued that the man had been suffering from a mental health episode at the time of the offence. The magistrate acknowledged the seriousness of the crime but noted the importance of considering the defendant's mental state.
Sentencing Scheduled
The case has been adjourned for sentencing, which is scheduled to take place next month. The man remains in custody pending the outcome. The maximum penalty for this offence is up to 10 years in prison.
Police have reminded the public that making false bomb threats is a serious crime that wastes valuable resources and causes unnecessary fear. They urged anyone with information about similar incidents to come forward.
