A woman facing serious charges of negligent manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm was released on bail last September, despite opposition from the prosecution. The court permitted her to live with her mother in Moama, New South Wales, under strict conditions. She was required to check in with police three times a week and inform authorities of any changes to her residence.
However, she failed to meet these requirements, leading to a warrant for her arrest. Last night, she surrendered to the authorities and appeared in court today to request a new bail hearing.
The prosecution argued against her release, presenting “criminal intelligence” suggesting her involvement in risky criminal activities, including police chases, firearm possession, and drug-related offenses.
Prosecutor Mitchell mentioned that while on bail, she was reportedly seen in a car with stolen number plates, which was later used to flee from police. However, he clarified that she would not face charges for this specific incident.
Lee handed herself in to police last night and applied for bail in court today.
He alleged he had “criminal intelligence” that Lee was involved in “high-risk offending”, including police pursuits, possessing a firearm, dealing and consuming drugs.
Mitchell said Lee, while on bail, was seen in a vehicle with stolen number plates about 18 hours before it was used to evade police, but he said she would not be charged over that matter.
“My fear is she is potentially engaging in criminal offending,” he told the court.
“It’s an educated opinion of mine that people who drive around on stolen plates aren’t going to the shops to get groceries.”
He said she had been reporting to Echuca police until December 24 and then stopped.
Her lawyer Nick Jane said Lee was “going through an incredibly difficult emotional time” in December as it was the birthday of her youngest child – who died in the fire – on the 21st.
“Almost immediately after the birthday of the youngest child is when she stops complying with bail,” he said.
He said Moama was isolating for Lee and proposed she reside at a new address in Altona if released on bail.
Lee’s ex-partner Matthew McAuliffe was also charged with negligent manslaughter, but the case against him was discontinued as he died while on bail in October.
The bail hearing continues this afternoon.
