Former ‘The Chase’ host Andrew O’Keefe learns bail fate

Former television game show host Andrew O’Keefe has had his recent bid for freedom denied in the New South Wales Supreme Court.

O’Keefe was arrested and later charged on January 27 over the alleged assault of a woman in a Sydney apartment.

Police allege a man grabbed a woman by the throat, pushed her to the ground and punched her on January 25.

“A verbal argument ensued between the pair, before the man allegedly assaulted the woman — grabbing her by the throat, pushing her to the ground and punching her,” a police statement said.

“The man allegedly assaulted the woman a second time — punching and kicking her — before she left the unit.”

A 50yo man is due to appear in Central Local Court tomorrow on six charges over the alleged assault/choking of a woman in the CBD on Tuesday. https://t.co/sUIMRHqMuK

— NSW Police Force (@nswpolice) January 27, 2022

Justice Robertson Wright made the decision to deny O’Keefe’s bail on Tuesday, March 8 despite Defence barrister Arjun Chhabra telling the court O’Keefe had been experiencing alleged bullying from Corrective Services Officers and was “surrounded” by bikie gangs, as reported by news.com.au.

Justice Wright also said the possibility of release after a proposed three week stint in a rehabilitation facility was not “sufficient” and that O’ Keefe’s use of illicit substances has “contributed to his offending.”

“The problem is, a long standing substance abuse disorder like that, having moved from cocaine to ice is a very serious matter,” he said.

“Were a longer proposal to be put forward, I think the case for release on bail would be significantly approved.”

O’Keefe claimed he had acted in self-defence after the woman started allegedly attacking him. Chhabra argued O’keefe was forced to defend himself in an effort to “distract and disarm” her, claiming “there is a real chance of acquittal.”

In denying O’Keefe’s bail Justice Wright said he expected O’Keefe would spend six to 12 months remanded in custody.

VIOLENCE DISCLAIMER: If you are concerned about violence or misconduct impacting you or your loved ones, contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service — 1800 737 732, Mensline Australia — 1300 789 978, Relationships Australia — 1300 364 277, BeyondBlue — 1300 224 636; Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467; Headspace — 1800 650 890; Kids Helpline — 1800 551 800; Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14, for confidential support, advice and referral that will help you explore your options.