Chris Hughes: Accused killer of Jennifer Board returns to court on driving charge

A Townsville man accused of the killing of Jennifer Board has had a charge related to the crash heard in court. Follow the latest.

Jennifer Board on the motorcycle she was riding when she was struck and killed in Townsville.

The man accused of murdering aspiring policewoman Jennifer Board has had a lesser charge heard in court.

Christopher Michael Hughes, was allegedly chasing a stolen car allegedly driven by Gregory Clubb when he lost control of his vehicle.

Hughes car then became airborne, before striking the motorbike of Jennifer Board, who was travelling in the opposite direction.

Ms Board died at the scene.

Chris Hughes has been charged over the alleged murder of Jennifer Board who was killed in a crash in February, 2021.

The alleged killer was charged with murder over the crash, as well as driving a motor vehicle without a license due to demerit points.

Clubb, who was initially charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, had his charge changed to manslaughter in May of last year.

Legal Aid Queensland lawyers representing Hughes appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court in relation to the unlicensed driving charge today.

“Mr Douglas has carriage in this matter and he is seeking a lengthy plea date. It should only take 15 to 20 minutes or so,” Solicitor Hayley Andersen said.

The legal team representing Hughes told Magistrate Richard Lehmann in August of last year that they were undergoing negotiations with the department of public prosecutions in relation to the suspended driving charge.

Presiding in the court today, Magistrate Lehmann set the plea to be heard in February.

“This is just the one charge, the driving of a motor vehicle without a driver license, correct?” Magistrate Lehamnn said.

“It’s set for 10am on February 28, 2023 for a plea of guilty.”

Hughes, who is currently remanded in custody, was given leave to appear via video link. His lawyer was given leave to appear via video or telephone.

Originally published as Chris Hughes: Accused killer of Jennifer Board returns to court on driving charge