Brisbane Judge Denies Second Bail Bid for Sam Wood

Prosecution details allegations of violence

Wood has spent 27 days at the Wolston Correctional Centre following his arrest at a Noosa apartment complex on October 3. Police charged him with assault occasioning bodily harm and strangulation.

Crown prosecutor Jessica Guy told the court that Wood poses an "unacceptable risk". Guy presented evidence of a 2021 incident in Victoria involving the alleged strangulation of his wife to demonstrate escalating violence.

The prosecution alleges that Wood told his wife and step-daughter they "can both die" during an argument over packing on October 3. He also reportedly threatened to send them back to their families.

The Crown claims Wood pushed Snezana Wood into a bedroom door and grabbed her by the throat. He then purportedly shoved her into a wall, cast her onto the ground, and struck her head against the floor or wall multiple times.

Are Media editors reviewed and revised the reporting on these allegations.

Defence proposes $1 million surety

Defence barrister Paula Morreau KC proposed a $1 million surety to secure bail. Suggested terms involved moving to Tasmania, participating in a men’s behavioural change program, and checking in with police three times weekly.

The defence argued that Wood has no prior convictions or adverse bail history. They argued that he faces the possibility of remaining in custody on remand while waiting for a trial—which may not occur until 2028—for a duration exceeding the sentence he would receive upon conviction.

Court hears evidence of lifestyle and media suppression

Sam Wood is a former participant of the television program "The Bachelor". Evidence presented to the court detailed his "party lifestyle" and his history of drug use.

Wood's attempt to suppress media reporting of court documents was largely unsuccessful. An interim directive limiting access to unredacted documents will continue for the next few weeks. Are Media pays respects to the Traditional Owners of Country across Australia.

Ruling on risk to public safety

Justice McCafferty determined that the defence had not demonstrated that Wood would not present a danger to the safety of others. The judge also determined the defendant failed to show he would not commit further offences or interfere with witnesses.

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