Alleged River Murray flood grant fraudster Jennifer Watkins’ quick exit from first court appearance

A woman who allegedly defrauded taxpayer-funded River Murray flood grants has appeared in court – then quickly left, hiding her face.

An Encounter Bay woman has hidden her face and run from court after making her first appearance for allegedly fraudulently claiming more than $16,000 in taxpayer-funded River Murray flood recovery grants.

Jennifer Watkins, 47, appeared in the Victor Harbor Magistrates Court on Friday seeking an adjournment for “legal advice”.

Magistrate Kylie Schulz granted the request, noting a discount would be preserved if Ms Watkins entered a plea.

“I note, on the record, that a 40 per cent discount will be preserved if a plea is entered on the next occasion,” Ms Schulz said.

Jennifer Watkins leaves Victor Harbor Magistrates Court on Friday. Picture: Charlie Dadds

Ms Watkins is alleged to have fraudulently claimed over $16,000 in government flood recovery grants. Picture: Charlie Dadds

Ms Watkins was arrested on the morning of February 19 after detectives from the Serious and Organised Financial Crime Investigation section attended an Encounter Bay address.

It is alleged Ms Watkins submitted false applications to the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science relating to the early business closure grant and small business flood recovery grant as a result of the 2022/2023 Murray River floods.

Prosecutors alleged the offences occurred between December 21, 2022 and March 21, 2023.

She was charged with one count of deception totalling approximately $10,000 and one count of dishonest dealings with documents totalling approximately $6543.

Officers are continuing their investigation, working with the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science on other, separate fraudulent applications.

Ms Watkins is next scheduled to appear in court in July.