INCIDENT
On June 14, approximately 200 people gathered at Dangar Park in Mayfield for a clothing giveaway organized by Australian streetwear brand Bad Apples. The event escalated into a riot, with about 50 individuals riding dirt bikes, taunting police, running down pedestrians, and damaging property.
"The event escalated into a riot, with about 50 individuals riding dirt bikes, taunting police, running down pedestrians, and damaging property."
ARRESTS AND COURT PROCEEDINGS
Three men were charged with offenses including rioting, which carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
Mark and Lochlan Di Stefano
- Mark Di Stefano, 25, and his brother Lochlan Di Stefano, 20, were arrested at a Wallsend home on Friday. During a search, police seized four motorbikes, a scooter, a taser, methamphetamine, helmets, clothing, and electronics.
- At a bail hearing, the court was told Mark participated in wheelies and burnouts at the start of the event, while Lochlan played a “very important role” in the riot.
- Police tracked the brothers by helicopter for 13 kilometers as they rode through Newcastle, driving on the wrong side of the road, running red lights, and ignoring traffic signals.
- CCTV footage showed Lochlan removing his clothes, abandoning his motorbike, and jumping onto his brother's bike to evade police.
- Neither brother held a driver's license. Lochlan was on parole at the time.
- Both were refused bail and are due to appear in court again on July 15.
Noah Hewitt
- Noah Hewitt, 22, was also arrested in Wallsend. Police body-worn cameras captured him riding close to pedestrians. He was identified by tattoos, and a search warrant led to the seizure of the involved motorbike.
- Hewitt was charged with six offenses, including rioting and criminal damage. He was granted bail with conditions: report to police three times weekly, stay out of Dangar Park, no alcohol or non-prescribed drugs, and no contact with co-accused.
- He is due back in court in July.
STATEMENTS
The City of Newcastle Council stated that the event was unauthorized. Police investigations are ongoing.
"The City of Newcastle Council stated that the event was unauthorized. Police investigations are ongoing."