Jessica May Purcell sentenced in court for enter dwelling and commit

A mother of two who stole $4500 worth of items from a house in North Rockhampton, targeted two more houses about four months later. Here’s what happened to her in court.

A mother of two who stole $4500 worth of items from a house in North Rockhampton, targeted two more houses about four months later, a court has heard.

Jessica May Purcell, 25, pleaded guilty in Rockhampton Magistrates Court on October 14 to three counts of enter dwelling and commit, two counts of failure to appear in accordance with undertaking, and one count each of possessing dangerous drugs and possessing a knife in a public place.

Police prosecutor Clancy Fox said Purcell committed was involved in the burglary of a residential home in Berserker on April 15, where a number of items were taken.

The court heard $4500 worth of items were taken from the home.

Mr Fox said Purcell was involved in two more burglaries on August 29.

“There is a pattern and repeated course of conduct of serious offences and on each occasion items were taken, which has resulted in loss,” he said.

He said $4500 restitution was sought.

Defence lawyer Brendan Gimbert said his client, who had two children, was transient, living between Rockhampton and Townsville, which resulted in the failure to appear charges.

“The transient nature has played a part in that offending,” Mr Gimbert said.

“She is on a waiting list for some stable accommodation, but that is going to take some time.”

Mr Gimbert said his client had committed the offences while on parole.

He said drugs were an issue for his client.

Magistrate Philippa Beckinsale sentenced Purcell 12 months’ prison, suspended for two years, with convictions recorded.

Purcell was also ordered to probation for two years and ordered to pay $4500 restitution.