Former jockey Danny Nikolic and former lawyer Patrick Lennon have appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court following their arrest for an alleged break-in at a Carlton property.
Nikolic, a former Caulfield Cup winner, and Lennon are accused of attempting to steal $177,000 worth of luxury items, including jewellery and a Toyota HiLux, from the home of a wealthy businessman.
The incident occurred on January 9 when the pair reportedly forced their way into a townhouse on Berkeley St at around 2am. Police were alerted to the break-in, and the men were arrested after allegedly becoming trapped inside by deadlocked doors.
Nikolic, 50, was seen in the front row of court alongside Lennon, 61, facing charges of burglary and theft. Prosecutor Michael Roper informed the court that the value of the stolen items would likely see the case escalated to a higher court.
According to reports, the duo allegedly used a ladder to climb onto the roof of a neighbouring cafe before breaking into the property via a balcony. The break-in attempt was foiled when they became stuck inside, unable to escape.
Nikolic’s previous troubles with the law were also mentioned in court. In addition to the current charges, he is facing unrelated assault charges, but claimed that those matters had been resolved several years ago. Magistrate Belinda Wallington reminded him that he was still on bail for those charges and advised him to seek legal advice.
Nikolic’s career in horse racing has been marred by controversy in the past. In 2012, he was handed a racing ban for threatening officials, and he was once represented by Lennon in a failed attempt to overturn that ban.
Lennon, a former high-profile lawyer whose clients have included underworld figures, no longer practices law after his certificate expired.
Both men are scheduled to return to court on June 17.
