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A COURT has heard the damage bill from 19 arson attacks earlier this year, mostly in Eaglehawk, could total $1 million.
Three men facing arson charges – Corey Deveraux, 22, Ricky Mackay, 21, and Shannon Deveraux, 21 – all appeared at a committal mention in the Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Corey Deveraux appeared via video link facing 19 charges of arson. Defence counsel Luke Docherty said there were still discrepancies.
Mackay also appeared via videolink on 19 arson charges. His defence counsel Kate Youngson said the prosecution had requested more time to consider a plea offer.
Shannon Deveraux appeared in court for the first time charged with arson for one of the 19 fires.
Magistrate Jennifer Tregent raised the prospect the damage bill could have topped $1 million.
Police initially estimated the damage from the fires was $600,000, including $200,000 for the fire which destroyed the Cooinda Park Playground in Golden Square on January 24.
The fires spanned from January 20 to February 21 and included the destruction of a pavilion at Albert Roy Reserve, the score room at Canterbury Oval and a portable office at Future Employment Opportunities.
The three men will next appear in court on June 22.