Childcare worker refused bail after allegedly detaining two children in Exmouth

A childcare worker has been refused bail after allegedly forcibly detaining two children in Exmouth.

Amber Jade Brennan, 28, appeared before the Carnarvon Magistrates Court on Tuesday facing one charge of child stealing.

The prosecution allege Ms Brennan attempted to detain a two-year-old and six-year-old boy while walking her dog on Sunday night in Exmouth.

The court heard Ms Brennan allegedly approached a group of eight children and spoke to them before picking up the two-year-old and grabbing the hand of the six-year-old, and walking 50 metres with them.

Police allege while the remaining youngsters attempted to get Ms Brennan to let go of the children, she said, “I’m taking them home for the night” and that they were “cute”.

The court heard the remaining children were able to free the two and six-year-old.

Parents called police

Ms Brennan is alleged to have gone to one of the children’s homes to retrieve her dog, as it followed the children there after the incident.

It’s alleged Ms Brennan then spoke with the children’s parents, who heard her repeat that she “wanted to take them home for the night”.

The children’s parents called the police, who also allegedly overheard Ms Brennan say she wanted to take the children home for the night.

Exmouth police arrested Ms Brennan on Monday and she has since pled not guilty to the charge.

The court heard Ms Brennan allegedly had a few alcoholic drinks prior to the incident.

Ms Brennan’s defence described the prosecutions case as “weak”, arguing she did not pick up the children or intend to detain either child.

Magistrate Heidi Watson said the case was “not weak”, and described the alleged conduct as “very bizarre behaviour”.

Ms Brennan was remanded in custody and will appear via video link in Exmouth Court for committal mention on March 20.