Shakira Debbie Stewart pleads guilty to obstructing police at Dalby courthouse

A woman has been sentenced following a dramatic incident at Dalby courthouse where she continually got in the way of police who were attempting to arrest her boyfriend.

The Dalby Courthouse

A woman who repeatedly obstructed police officers during a dramatic arrest at the Dalby courthouse has been sentenced for her involvement in the “ruckus”.

Shakira Debbie Stewart appeared in Dalby Magistrates Court on May 16 after she continually had to be pushed away from her boyfriend who was being arrested in the foyer of the courthouse on April 18.

Police prosecutor Derek Brady said the 20-year-old had attended the courthouse that day with her boyfriend, who had a matter being heard, however had a return to prison warrant attached to him for separate charges.

“(The boyfriend) was arrested in the foyer and obstructed police in that arrest and had to be taken to the ground where he was restrained,” Sergeant Brady said.

“(Stewart) interfered with police who were trying to restrain him and she was pushed back multiple times.”

Defence lawyer Hamish Chapman said the mother of one was concerned for her boyfriend as he had recently broken his hand.

“It caused quite a ruckus and she’s gone in without thinking, it was in the moment,” he said.

Magistrate Kyna Morice told the court from the outset she had been present the day the arrest happened and adjourned court proceedings due to the commotion that was heard from the foyer.

“I accepted it would’ve been a confronting experience for you and understand why you went in,” she said.

“I can understand your reaction but you need to be aware that when you interfere with what police are trying to do you will be back before the court.”

Stewart pleaded guilty to one count of obstructing police and contravening a requirement.

She was fined $300 and no conviction was recorded.