Criminal charges against former Byron Shire mayor and current councillor Michael Lyon were dismissed in Tweed Heads Courthouse today.
Appearing via video link before Magistrate Lisa Stapleton, Shaun Croner of the DPP said that the charges of contravention of an Apprehended Violence Order, and stalk/intimidation (both dating from 21 October 2024) were being withdrawn.
‘It was the order of Magistrate Stapleton that all four charges were dismissed,’ Mr Lyon’s lawyer John Weller told The Echo.
‘An Interim AVO is still in place with condition 1 only.’
Police prosecutors in court appeared unprepared for this decision.
As for the AVO matter itself, Michael Lyon’s lawyer Mr Weller requested that it be resolved as quickly as possible, for the good of the family.
Magistrate Stapleton deferred that matter until Monday 17 March, which is the regular day for DV cases to be heard in Tweed Heads.
She noted that the AVO remains in legal effect at this stage.
Speaking outside court afterwards, Mr Weller said ‘Mr Lyon’s record is cleared and his name is cleared. He’s walked out of here an innocent man. Justice has served Mr Lyon properly.’
Michael Lyon chose to say nothing to the media.
The Echo has sought comment from the DPP about why all charges were dropped.
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