Perth, Australia – Annie Melanie Lucas, a 62-year-old grandmother, has been extradited back to Australia after allegedly embezzling over $1.6 million from her former employer. She appeared in a Perth court on Saturday following her return from the United Kingdom.
Lucas faces 103 charges after allegedly misappropriating company funds from a Port Kennedy contracting business over a period of six years, beginning nearly two decades ago. WA Police arranged her extradition after an extensive investigation into the alleged crimes.
Authorities claim Lucas took advantage of her position of trust in the family business by depositing business cheques into her personal bank account. Additionally, she allegedly used company funds to cover her personal expenses.
In a released video, Lucas is seen being escorted by detectives from the Financial Crime Squad at the airport. Dressed in a pink hooded vest and a lavender sweater, she appeared to go unnoticed by other travellers.
Lucas was arrested by UK police on September 6, 2023, and remanded in custody by a local magistrate before being released on bail. She fought her extradition, arguing that too much time had passed since the alleged offenses, and cited health concerns and her right to family life as reasons against returning to Australia.
However, a UK judge dismissed her arguments, ruling that Lucas was aware of the warrant for her arrest when she left Australia. The seriousness of her alleged crimes and the public interest in her prosecution were considered sufficient to justify the extradition.
WA Police emphasized their commitment to investigating financial crimes, no matter how long they take. “Complex investigations often take years of work, but we will continue to bring those responsible to justice,” said a WA Police spokesperson.
Lucas is scheduled to appear before a Perth magistrate via video link on Monday, where she is expected to apply for bail.
