Sam Wood Seeks New Bail Hearing Following Domestic Violence Charges

Sam Wood, a former contestant on The Bachelor reality television series, has filed a new application for bail less than a month after being remanded in custody. The 46-year-old faces charges related to an alleged domestic violence incident involving his wife, Snezana.

The charges stem from an incident on October 3 at the couple's holiday accommodation in Noosa, Queensland. Wood was initially denied bail in Maroochydore Local Court on October 9. His lawyer confirmed that a new bail application was imminent. The Supreme Court has scheduled the bail hearing for November 4.

During the October 9 hearing, the court was informed that Snezana feared for her life during the alleged altercation. According to the prosecution, a dispute arose as the couple was preparing to return home to Melbourne. It was alleged that Wood grabbed his wife by the throat and pushed her against a wall, subsequently restricting her breathing while she was on the ground. Police prosecutor Jeanette Grigoris stated that Ms. Wood believed she was going to die. Wood's stepdaughter reportedly called the police to report the alleged assault.

Wood's lawyer, Mathew Cuskelly, presented a different account, stating that Wood denied any strangulation. He argued that his client may have grounds for a self-defense claim, suggesting that "hostilities" occurred and that the complainant moved towards Wood and continued to yell at him. Wood's defense indicated he pushed her away, denying any strangulation.

Acting Magistrate Janelle Boegheim denied the initial bail application, describing the prosecution's case as relatively strong. She noted that bail could be reconsidered if the strength of the case changed. Wood was charged on October 3 following the alleged incident.