November 29, 2012
Three people were remanded in custody when they appeared in Kingaroy Magistrates Court today on charges linked to an alleged firebombing attempt on a Kingaroy house.
Patricia Anne Strachan and her partner Robert Scott Ainsworth failed to convince Magistrate Mark Bucknall they should be released on bail.
Wilson Frank Ellis did not seek bail.
They have each been charged with attempted arson and manufacturing an explosive after a molotov cocktail was allegedly thrown at a house on Monday.
As well, Strachan faces two drugs charges and Ainsworth has been charged with burglary.
Police Prosecutor Sgt Wayne Bushell said because of the types of offences, it was up to Strachan and Ainsworth to show cause why they should not be held in custody.
Duty lawyer Mark Werner argued that Strachan had significant mental health issues and was on a range of medication. She also had no history of violence and would “suffer during a period of incarceration”. He said Ainsworth had an acquired brain injury.
However Mr Bucknall said the police strongly objected to bail; they had submitted the evidence was strong and if convicted the likely outcome was a period of imprisonment.
Mr Bucknall said police had alleged Strachan was involved in the planning and preparation of the offence, and was in the vehicle when the molotov cocktail was thrown at a house that contained five people.
He said the medical care Strachan required could be adequately addressed while she was being held in custody.
The trio has been ordered to re-appear in Kingaroy Magistrates Court on January 24 for mention.
