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Brother of accused Bourke St driver concerned for mental health in prison

The brother of accused Bourke St rampage driver Dimitrious Gargasoulas is concerned for his sibling's wellbeing.

The brother of accused Bourke St rampage driver Dimitrious Gargasoulas is concerned for his sibling's wellbeing. Photo: Facebook

The brother of accused Bourke St driver Dimitrious Gargasoulas is worried about his sibling’s mental health in prison, revealing they have been writing each other letters.

Angelo Gargasoulas was in court on Monday to support his 27-year-old brother as he appeared before the Victorian Supreme Court via video link for a directions hearing.

The accused man last week waived his right to a pre-trial committal hearing and pleaded not guilty to 39 offences, including six counts of murder and 28 counts of attempted murder, over the Bourke St rampage on January 20.

Mental health experts who assessed the 27-year-old in custody believe his mental fitness to plead and stand trial is an issue.

Director of Public Prosecutions John Champion SC said they are awaiting another report before deciding how the case will proceed. 

Angelo Gargasoulas

Angelo Gargasoulas, said ‘family’s family’ while defending his brother. Photo: AAP

The report, by the state’s criminal mental health service Forensicare, is not expected to be completed before March.

“I would hope Forensicare would give this matter urgent priority,” Justice Lex Lasry said.

“This is one of those cases where there is some level of pressure.”

Defence barrister Theo Alexander said Gargasoulas’ current mental state was an issue.

“The primary inquiry is his current presentation,” he told the court.

Outside court, Angelo said he was worried about his older brother.

“That’s the only thing I’m more than concerned about, pretty much his mental health and how he’s doing, pretty much,” he told media.

“Family’s family after all, at the end of the day.”

Angelo said he and his brother have been writing each other letters while the 27-year-old has been in prison.

The younger brother said Dimitrious has “most definitely” shown remorse for what has happened.

“It’s definitely showing.”

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