A popular cafe in the heart of Double Bay is considering a significant security upgrade following a disturbing incident where a man allegedly terrorised staff and a garbage truck driver.
The early Wednesday morning incident on Knox Lane has shaken the typically peaceful neighbourhood.
Around 5:30 a.m., police were called to the scene following reports of a man causing a public disturbance. It is alleged the 26-year-old man chased a garbage truck driver into the cafe before harassing staff members who were preparing to open for the day.
Police located the man unconscious at the back of the cafe, where he was allegedly found with a small quantity of drugs. He was treated by paramedics at the scene before being transported to St Vincent’s Hospital for assessment under police guard.
Following his release from hospital, the man was taken to Waverley Police Station and charged with a string of offences, including entering a vehicle without consent, drug possession, stalking and intimidation. It is alleged the man had earlier broken into a barista’s car parked nearby.
A cafe employee who has lived in Double Bay for ten years expressed shock at the incident, describing it as “highly unusual” for the area. In response to the ordeal, cafe management is considering installing security cameras and a panic button to enhance safety for staff and patrons.
Video footage shows the man walking down Knox Lane past the garbage truck and towards the cafe. Further footage depicts paramedics treating the man on the street, surrounded by police officers.
The man was refused bail and will appear in Waverley Local Court on Thursday.
Published Date 21-Jan-2025
