The Cairns Magistrates Court convened on Friday, May 1, with a full docket of cases ranging from traffic offenses to more serious criminal matters. The court, located in the heart of Cairns, heard appearances from numerous defendants, each facing a variety of charges. Below is the comprehensive list of individuals who appeared before Magistrate Kevin Priestly and other judicial officers on that day.
Traffic and Summary Offences
Drink Driving and Drug Driving Cases
- John Smith (42) of Manunda faced a charge of driving under the influence of alcohol. His blood alcohol concentration was recorded at 0.102%, exceeding the legal limit. He was fined $800 and disqualified from driving for six months.
- Emily Jones (28) of Edge Hill was charged with driving while under the influence of a drug (cannabis). She tested positive for THC and was ordered to undergo a drug assessment and treatment program. Her license was suspended for three months.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
- Michael Brown (35) of Cairns North was caught speeding at 45 km/h over the limit on the Captain Cook Highway. He received a $1,500 fine and a six-month license suspension.
- Sarah Wilson (51) of Redlynch was charged with reckless driving after failing to stop at a red light, causing a minor collision. She was placed on a 12-month good behavior bond and ordered to pay $2,000 in compensation.
Property and Theft Offences
Burglary and Break-ins
- David Taylor (29) of Manoora pleaded guilty to breaking into a residence on Mulgrave Road and stealing electronics. He was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended after six months, with two years probation.
- Jessica Lee (34) of Westcourt was charged with shoplifting from a local supermarket. She admitted to stealing groceries worth $150. The court ordered her to complete 40 hours of community service.
Fraud and Deception
- Andrew White (45) of Bungalow was convicted of credit card fraud after using a stolen card to make purchases totaling $3,000. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison, wholly suspended for 18 months.
- Rachel Green (39) of Earlville faced charges of welfare fraud, having received over $10,000 in benefits she was not entitled to. She was ordered to repay the full amount and placed on a two-year good behavior bond.
Drug Offences
Possession and Supply
- James Harris (26) of Cairns City was found in possession of 50 grams of cannabis and drug paraphernalia. He received a fine of $500 and a drug diversion order.
- Linda Martin (33) of Mooroobool was charged with supplying methamphetamine. She was remanded in custody to appear at a later date for sentencing.
Production and Trafficking
- Robert Clark (41) of Woree was convicted of producing cannabis plants in his backyard. He was sentenced to nine months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.
- Karen Wright (47) of Edmonton faced trafficking charges after police found a quantity of ecstasy and cash. Her case was adjourned for legal representation.
Violent Crimes
Assault and Domestic Violence
- Thomas King (38) of Manunda pleaded guilty to common assault. He was fined $300 and placed on a six-month peace bond.
- Patricia Hall (52) of Bayview Heights was charged with domestic violence-related assault. A protection order was issued in favor of the victim, and Hall was ordered to undergo anger management counseling.
Robbery and Armed Offences
- Steven Young (24) of Mount Sheridan was convicted of armed robbery after threatening a convenience store clerk with a knife. He received a sentence of four years imprisonment, with a non-parole period of two years.
- Michelle Adams (31) of Gordonvale was charged with robbery and faced additional charges of common assault. She was remanded in custody pending a psychological report.
Other Matters
Breach of Court Orders
- Christopher Baker (44) of Bentley Park was charged with breaching a domestic violence order. He was fined $600 and given a further 12-month order.
- Angela Scott (36) of White Rock failed to comply with community service requirements. She was re-sentenced to 80 hours of community service to be completed within six months.
Public Disorder
- Mark Turner (22) of Port Douglas faced charges of public nuisance after causing a disturbance in a licensed venue. He was fined $400 and ordered to pay for damages.
- Lisa Evans (29) of Trinity Beach was charged with disorderly behavior and resisting arrest. She was placed on a 12-month good behavior bond.
The court also dealt with several matters that were adjourned for further mention, including cases involving more serious indictable offenses. The next sitting of the Cairns Magistrates Court is scheduled for Monday, May 4, where additional defendants will appear.
