On Friday 15 March 2019, in the course of his duty, a Correctional Officer fatally shot an escaping inmate. During the Coronial Inquest, the Coroner decided to refer the matter to the Department of Public Prosecutions to determine if charges should be laid.
Today (Friday 5 February 2021) at 10:30am, following discussions between NSW Police and his legal team; the Officer, his lawyer and PSA Industrial Officer David McCauley attended Lismore Police Station where the Officer was charged with manslaughter. The charge was by way of Court Attendance Notice for 29 March 2021 and the Officer was not detained.
The PSA has retained a high-profile Senior Counsel specialising in criminal law and a Junior Counsel to vigorously defend this matter. Fortunately, as a member of the Legal Fund, the Officer does not have to pay anything for this representation.
The Coroner has placed strict suppression orders around the naming of the Officers involved and the Officer has asked that his name not be discussed on social media or any public forums. We ask that our members respect the Officer’s wishes in this difficult time for both himself and his family.
The PSA has maintained regular contact with the Officer and continue to offer him and his family support in any way we can.
This is a difficult time for the Officer, his family and other Correctional Officers who already undertake a tough and dangerous job.
If members need any assistance, please contact your sub-branches and/or the Member Support Centre (MSC) on 1300 772 679.
