Court hears of Andrew O'Keefe's mental health issues and drug addiction as he is refused bail
Former television host Andrew O'Keefe has been refused bail after he was charged with the alleged assault of a woman earlier this week.
Today a Sydney court heard about his history of mental health issues and ice addiction, and more details about the alleged assault in his apartment were revealed.
O'Keefe - who appeared on Weekend Sunrise, hosted Deal or No Deal, and was an ambassador for White Ribbon, a charity that aims to end violence against women - was charged with six offences yesterday.
A sketch of Andrew O'Keefe in court today. (Vincent de Gouw) 9News
His lawyer Sharon Ramsden told Central Local Court the woman he allegedly choked had come to his house in Sydney's CBD uninvited.
She said O'Keefe had sustained significant injuries while acting in self-defence and argued he had never been criminally convicted of anything.
His lawyer also tended medical reports about his mental health and drug addictions, including ice.
The police prosecutor said there are photos of the alleged victim's injuries, including significant marks to her face and legs, and that she had to bite O'Keefe to break free.
As O'Keefe was taken away in the back of a police car yesterday he lashed out, screaming expletives at the media. 9News
O'Keefe was on the brink of tears and shaking his head during the hearing today.
He rolled his eyes and sighed loudly when hearing the case against him.
At one stage he said: "Oh god, this is ridiculous" and "there was no choke".
He complained it was an "injustice" when he was refused bail.
Andrew O'Keefe's lawyer hopes he will be released so he can go to rehab. Getty
Despite his significant mental health problems, a magistrate refused his application to be released and found the prosecution case was relatively strong.
He said O'Keefe would likely be jailed if found guilty.
O'Keefe's lawyer hopes he will be released later so he can go to rehab.
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