Court considers how much is too much in skimpy case

MICHAEL BENNETT, The West Australian August 14, 2009, 2:11 pm
Skimpy barmaid Megan Brooks. Picture: Astrid Volzke

WA NEWS / Astrid Volzke ©

The skimpy barmaid charged with indecent exposure for allegedly flashing too much skin while serving drinks at a Canningvale tavern appeared in Fremantle Magistrate's Court this morning.

Represented by lawyer Terry Dobson, 29-year-old Megan Brookes was granted a four week adjournment in order for the police to provide "further and better particulars" in the case, which Mr Dobson said was not in the public interest.

Mr Dobson said the "actual alleged criminal conduct" from the November incident at the Market City Tavern when she served drinks to two undercover police officers, included the accused wearing "black-lace, French knickers" and that her "buttock was exposed".

He told Magistrate Robert Lawrence the particulars they sought regarded "which buttock was exposed and how much of it was exposed".

"One of the allegations is that this ladies nipples were erect…I just don't know how this is criminal conduct," Mr Dobson said. "It simply does not seem to be in the public interest."

At one point Mr Lawrence questioned whether there was any charge at all because of the wording of the police charge sheet.

Outside court Mr Dobson said he would be seeking a discontinuance for Ms Brookes when the matter returned to court on September 11.

"She wasn't engaging in any conduct that would've, or should've, attracted the attention of the police," he said. "There seems to be no reason why Ms Brookes should have been charged."

Ms Brookes said she was shocked and disappointed that the matter had reached court.

"I'd understand if I was wearing next to nothing…but I had a body suit on, I had knickers on, my nipples were covered…I was just doing my job," she said.

Both Mr Dobson and Ms Brookes said police should be using their resources to solving serious crimes.



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