Aleisha Lea McGovern jailed for serious assault police officer, wilful damage

A Sunshine Coast mum will spend Christmas behind bars after she had the police called on her during a public rampage in Maroochydore. Here is what happened in court.

Aleisha Lea McGovern. Photo: Facebook

A 43-year-old Sunshine Coast mother will spend Christmas behind bars, after she spat in the face of a police officer during a public rampage.

Maroochydore Magistrates Court was told on November 14 Aleisha Lea McGovern had the police called on her after she went on a public rampage and damaged a number of cars near Baden Powell St in Maroochydore on July 9.

Police prosecutor Tegan Smith said McGovern then lashed out at officers while they tried to arrest her, shouting “vulgar” abuse after she spat in an officer’s face, near his eyes and mouth.

Defence lawyer Mark Robinson said his client did not know why she damaged the cars to begin with, but spat at the officer because she felt the arrest was too violent.

He said his client occasionally used small amounts of methamphetamine, however this was not linked to her actions which landed her in court.

McGovern had been employed up until three years ago, when she left her job due to workplace bullying, Mr Robinson explained.

She had since become homeless, and frequented the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre.

Mr Robinson said despite the severity of his client’s actions, she had never been to jail.

McGovern pleaded guilty to eight charges including one of seriously assaulting a police officer, five of wilful damage and breaching bail twice.

She had to pay $1000 compensation and was jailed for eight months, but will be released on parole on January 14, 2023.

A conviction was recorded.