UPDATE: A woman has been fined $250 after a police investigation linked her to a damaged smoke alarm in a motel room in Orange. Sharmayne Welsh, from Whalan in Western Sydney, pleaded guilty in her absence at the Orange Local Court on July 17, 2025.
The incident unfolded on June 15, 2025, when hotel staff reported persistent activation issues with the smoke alarms. Upon inspection, the maintenance manager discovered that the alarm in Welsh’s room at the Mercure Hotel on Byng Street was not only missing but had also been found damaged in the fridge. The hotel immediately alerted authorities.
Police from the Central West Police District arrived at the scene and noted several concerning details. They observed used cigarettes and smoke packets in the room, raising questions about the incident’s circumstances. When Welsh returned to the room, she claimed she found the alarm in that state and insisted she was the only occupant.
Court documents detail how the police collected statements from hotel staff and maintenance personnel, alongside photographic evidence of the damage. During her court appearance, represented by solicitor Laura Horton, Welsh confirmed her guilty plea for intentionally or recklessly damaging property.
Magistrate Gary Wilson announced that a relatively small fine would be imposed, reflecting the nature of the offense. Welsh was convicted and fined $250 for her actions.
This case highlights the importance of maintaining safety equipment in public accommodations. With smoke alarms critical for hotel guest safety, the incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with occupancy.
As authorities continue to emphasize fire safety, this incident raises awareness about the consequences of neglecting safety protocols in shared living spaces. What happens next for Welsh remains uncertain, but this case will likely prompt further discussions about safety regulations in motels and hotels across the region.
