Annerley couple Sarah Margot Davis, 30, and Dale Philip Usher, 39, have been charged with manufacturing explosives following alleged pipe bomb detonations at their Laurier Street property.
The charges result from coordinated police raids at properties in Annerley and Burbank, following two separate incidents where pipe bombs were allegedly detonated during the early hours of June 10 and August 31, causing property damage.
During Monday’s search of the Laurier Street residence, investigators from the Dutton Park Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), supported by the Explosives Ordinance Response Team, discovered what they allege to be precursor materials and equipment for manufacturing explosives in the couple’s garage. The search also reportedly uncovered multiple illegal substances, including methylamphetamine, GHB, and cannabis.
The couple appeared before the Brisbane Arrest Court on Tuesday, facing multiple charges including:
- Two counts of manufacturing explosives without authority
- Five counts of possessing dangerous drugs
- Multiple explosives-related offenses
- Usher faces additional charges related to the alleged detonations, including destroying or damaging premises by explosion.
Defense lawyer Andrew Owens, representing Davis, stated that evidence linking his client to the explosive materials was circumstantial, noting that while Usher’s fingerprints were found on relevant items, Davis’s connection was limited to property ownership. Davis, who has a limited criminal history, secured bail under strict conditions, including:
- Mandatory residence with her parents in Forest Lake
- No contact with Usher
- Twice-weekly reporting to Inala Police Station
Usher made no application for bail and remains in custody. Both cases are scheduled to resume on November 18.
Police operations continue at the Laurier Street property, with investigators maintaining an active presence at the scene.
Published 30-October-2024
