UPDATE: A man accused of igniting a fire at a KFC to divert attention from a robbery at the Catalina Club will remain in custody after his bail application was denied. Joshua Dylan Hicks, aged 23, appeared via audiovisual link before the Batemans Bay Local Court on December 22.
Authorities allege that Hicks set fire to a Sulo bin at the Batemans Bay KFC, then rammed his vehicle into the Catalina Club, stealing a cash terminal valued at $58,835.80. Currently held at the South Coast Correctional Centre, he faces serious charges including property destruction, aggravated break and enter, and resisting arrest.
Hicks’ lawyer, Jack Dunn, argued for reconsideration, proposing a bail surety of $20,000 from Hicks’ parents. Dunn stressed that restricting Hicks to his parents’ home and requiring daily police check-ins would mitigate flight risks. He noted Hicks’ mental health struggles, claiming he hasn’t accessed necessary medical treatment while in custody.
However, Larissa Vander Reest from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions opposed the bail request, citing the potential for a lengthy prison sentence of up to 20 years for his most serious charge as a significant flight risk. Vander Reest highlighted Hicks’ history of non-compliance with court orders and past attempts to evade law enforcement, indicating a troubling pattern of behavior.
Magistrate Doug Dick acknowledged Dunn’s balanced arguments but ultimately denied bail, emphasizing Hicks’ extensive criminal record and the perceived strength of the prosecution’s case. “You attempted to run from the police on two occasions. You have a lengthy history of failing to comply with orders,” he stated.
Hicks is yet to enter a plea and is scheduled for a follow-up court appearance on February 2, 2026. The case has drawn considerable attention due to the dramatic nature of the alleged crimes, raising questions about public safety and the consequences of escalating criminal behavior.
As this case develops, the community remains on alert, concerned about the implications of such brazen criminal acts. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story.
