The article reports that Lauren Darul, 33, has been refused bail after allegedly stabbing sushi chef Wan Lai in Melbourne’s CBD on October 2. CCTV footage reportedly shows Darul running up behind Lai and stabbing her in the chest. The magistrate found she posed an “unacceptable risk to the community”, noting she had 19 outstanding matters, was already on bail at the time, and has a long history of mental-health issues, homelessness, and substance use, including ice and methamphetamine. Darul told the court she wanted to “clean up” her life and stay off drugs.
The court heard Darul has repeatedly failed to appear, accrued numerous warrants, and often breached bail and community orders, with offending that has escalated in seriousness. She has had 28 episodes of involuntary treatment since 2013 and has struggled to engage with support services. Magistrate Bourke concluded she was too high-risk for release, considering a future jail term likely. Meanwhile, victim Wan Lai has been discharged from hospital but moved homes due to psychological trauma. Darul is scheduled to return to court on January 20.
