Greater Geelong City Council CEO Ali Wastie and two other female council officers have taken court action to seek personal safety intervention orders against a property owner after he sent them abusive and threatening messages.
The Geelong Advertiser has reported on the court session on Monday, which heard that Mr John Verikios’ behaviour was in response to the adoption of an urban design framework that affected his property.
Ms Wastie said she was fearful of Mr Verikios, noting his use of gendered language with anger and vitriol directed towards her in a personal capacity.
Despite acknowledging the conduct as unacceptable, Mr. Verikios’ lawyer argued the actions did not amount to a serious threat or warrant court orders.
But judicial registrar Michael Bolte described the behaviour as “entitled”, and the language used as “abhorrent” and “intimidating”, and questioning how anyone could not feel apprehension and concern as a result.
The applications for intervention orders were withdrawn after discussions between the parties in which Mr. Verikios agreed to an undertaking.
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