By Cam Lucadou-Wells
AN Endeavour Hills woman has been refused bail in Dandenong Magistrates’ Court after being charged over an elaborate shop-stealing mission in a Costco store.
Lucy Morgan and two accomplices were accused of taking a ceramic toilet out of its box and hiding more than $4400 of goods in the container in the Moorabbin store on 25 August.
They then allegedly used sticky-tape from the store to securely close the box, the court was told on 28 November.
Among the hidden items were a computer, a security camera system, a vacuum cleaner, two mini portable docks and a DVD recorder.
One of the co-accused used their Costco membership to buy the ‘toilet’, a Tonka truck and a $144 floor lamp, the court heard.
Nominal informant Acting Sergeant Michael Silva told the court Kingston CIU detectives found the stolen security cameras installed at the front door and inside the co-accused’s house.
The co-accused made full admissions to stealing the security system as well as the DVD recorder found in her home, Sgt Silva said.
Morgan was also accused of being an accomplice to a male stealing a bottle of Wild Turkey inside his pants at Dan Murphy’s, Endeavour Hills.
Sgt Silva said Morgan was un-cooperative during her record of interview, denying involvement in the thefts.
She told police that the Wild Turkey “didn’t taste very good”, the court heard.
Sgt Silva said Morgan had several times failed to appear on bail for family violence and other theft matters.
“She says she forgets when she has court because of an acquired brain injury.
“It’s obvious to police that she’s avoiding prosecution with these matters and continues to commit indictable offences.”
Morgan, who told the court she was withdrawing from alcohol, ice, cigarettes and Valium, said she wanted to go home to her family.
“My mental health is not very good. It’s my mother who is keeping me on track.
“I promise I won’t forget these court dates.”
Morgan was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 2 December.
