Accused M1 rampage mum to stay behind bars
A CURRUMBIN Waters mum accused of going on a M1 rampage at the weekend will remain behind bars after her bail application was rejected.
Amber Jane Lucas, 40, is facing 10 charges including driving while unlicensed, dangerous operation of a vehicle, obstructing a police officer and failing to comply with duties when crashing in a car.
A visibly upset Lucas wiped away tears as she appeared in the Southport Magistrates Court on Tuesday via videolink.
She said she was dealing with family issues.
About 3.30pm Saturday, it is alleged a white van had rammed multiple cars along the Pacific Motorway, including sideswiping a car at Pimpama and colliding into the back of another at Palm Beach.
Officers tracked the van to Mayfield St in Currumbin Waters where the 40-year-old driver allegedly continued to try to evade them, smashing into the back of a parked police car.
“I’d like to say I completely understand the seriousness of all of this,” Lucas told the court.
“It is not my normal behaviour – I could have injured and hurt someone.
“I just want to be at home with my family, Your Honour.”
Magistrate Jane Bentley noted the Currumbin Waters’ woman had a previous conviction of dangerous driving in 2016.
The court was told Lucas’ criminal history included numerous drug offences, breaches of bail and breaches of probation.
“But I also take into account it’s not alleged you have offended since 2017,” Magistrate Bentley said.
She refused to grant Lucas bail, saying she could not be satisfied that the 40-year-old “would not be a danger to members of the public” if released.
Lucas was remanded in custody to appear in court on September 20.