( Due to current Govt. restrictions on ‘Gatherings’ due to Corona19 Virus Pandemic, some families may wish to have a Memorial Service / Wake with friends and family at a later date )
Funeral Parlour: ?
Buried at: Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens & Crematorium,
Grave: Portion: North East Terrace, Garden Plinth, Row: 5, Plot: 86 ?
GPS:-33.793889 – 151.154167
Photo Credit: Lynn Lucas – Sept. 2022
Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at: ?
Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( April 2022 )
PAT is NOT mentioned on the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance * BUT SHOULD BE ( last checked 3 Aug. 2025 )
PAT is NOT mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra ( last checked 130922 / 170723 / 3 Aug. 2025 ) *NEED MORE INFO
PAT IS NOT mentioned on the Sydney Police Centre Memorial Wall, Surry Hills ( Sept. 2022 / 170723 / 3 Aug. 2025 )
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
At Chatswood police station in November 2005, Detective Senior Constable Patrick Cleary shot himself dead before colleagues arrived for work.
Patrick is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
Again a policeman clocks on, kills himself
By Les Kennedy November 25, 2005
What possesses some people to do the unspeakable to little children – even their own?
Patrick Cleary was a police officer who plunged into the dark secrets of families to catch sex offenders or those who preyed on and cruelly abused children.
Yesterday, barely six years after joining the NSW Police Service, and three years after becoming a detective, the 31-year-old was found shot dead in an apparent suicide.
The Police Operations Commander, Deputy Commissioner Andrew Scipione, said the death marked a sad day for the NSW Police. At least three other officers in the past four years have taken their own lives in stations with their own service weapons.
“Today is a very tragic day for the NSW Police Force. We have lost a very, very good officer,” Mr Scipione said. “At this stage I might indicate that there appear to be no suspicious circumstances and it has just been a terrible, terrible tragedy. I am told he was a first-class officer, and that is a real loss to us.”
Detective Cleary, who grew up on Sydney’s northern beaches, had since July been in charge of the Chatswood Joint Investigation Response Team, comprising four detectives and four investigators from the Department of Community Services.
The unit had responsibility for investigating all child abuse cases from North Sydney to Hornsby, on Sydney’s outskirts.
The tight-knit unit which dealt with the stuff of nightmares – little children recounting their ordeals at the hands of abusers – coped by reassuring themselves that whatever the outcome, even traumatic family separations, they were protecting the weak.
But police said yesterday that no one recognised the emotional turmoil within Detective Cleary.
His death, which has shocked officers in all nine metropolitan joint investigation response teams as well as the 60-officer Child Protection and Serious Sex Crimes Squad at Parramatta, is the subject of an intensive investigation by a critical incident team from the homicide squad.
But Mr Scipione, who addressed Detective Cleary’s distraught colleagues, said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
He said the officers and the DOCS investigators who worked with Detective Cleary were receiving counselling.
Those in the response teams received counselling every three months to determine how they were coping, but this would now be reviewed.
“No one ever knows why these tragedies happen. We may never know,” he said.
Detective Cleary’s widowed mother was comforted by the head of the Child Protection and Serious Sex Crimes Squad, Helen Begg, who broke the news to her at her home yesterday.
Police said it appeared Detective Cleary had arrived early for work, disconnecting the alarm to the office.
He had been dead for up to an hour before his body was found. There was a single gunshot wound to the head.
A co-worker found him in a room away from his office at 8.45am. Lying beside his body was his Glock semi-automatic service pistol. There was no note.
Police said Detective Cleary had graduated from the police academy in September 1999.
For the three years he worked at Dee Why and Manly police before joining the Chatswood JIRT team as a Senior Constable.
“He dealt with the problems of fragile young people, taking it in. It’s not a good thing,” one officer said yesterday.
Newcastle Anglican diocese business manager John Cleary’s work is his late detective brother’s legacy
By Joanne McCarthy
Updated December 6 2017 – 7:12pm, first published November 23 2016 – 11:00am
JOHN Cleary carried a photo of his late brother Pat with him as he gave evidence on Wednesday about the Anglican Church’s shocking history of child sexual abuse in the Hunter region.
The rest of this story is behind a pay wall with the Newcastle Herald.
Patrick CLEARY – NSWPF – Suicide – 24 November 2005 ( in uniform ). His brother – John CLEARY in striped tie.
Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.
A police constable found shot dead in a station in Sydney’s south is believed to have killed himself.
The 29-year-old constable was found about 1pm (AEDT) today with a gunshot wound inside Menai police station, but the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Police said the officer was from the Sutherland Local Area Command and was alone in the building at the time.
“He’s an officer who had served with us for some 18 months, and will be sadly lost,” Deputy Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione told reporters.
“We can ill afford to lose anyone from this organisation, but particularly one as young as this man makes it a double tragedy.”
Mr Scipione said the officer died from a gunshot wound to the head and his service revolver was found next to his body.
A report was being prepared for the coroner and officers were being offered counselling.
His death is being investigated by a critical incident team.
Further details about the officer have not been released as family members are yet to be notified.
A POLICE constable with less than18 months‘ experience in the force shot himself dead inside a one-man station on Sydney’s southern outskirts yesterday.
What caused so much anguish in the mind of the 29-year-old officer for him to take his life is now the subject of an investigation by a critical incident team comprising detectives from the homicide squad, the coroner’s investigation unit, St George police and police internal affairs.
But the acting Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, who attended the scene of the shooting in the tiny Menai police station at the Menai Marketplace shopping mall, said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
The officer, attached to the Sutherland police area local command, was found dead in a toilet cubicle inside the station, which is manned 24 hours by a single officer on rotation.
The death brings to at least five the number of police officers who have killed themselves at a police station since 2001. All were found by colleagues.
Mr Scipione said police from Sutherland made the discovery at 1pm when sent to investigate why the officer, whose name has not been released, had not responded to several calls from colleagues.
Mr Scipione said the officer had sustained a single gunshot wound to the head. His 9mm-calibre Glock semi-automatic service pistol was beside his body.
Mr Scipione said: “It is a very sad day for the NSW Police Force today. Today we learned of the sad loss of an officer … he is an officer who has served with us for some 18 months … We can ill afford to lose anyone from this organisation. But particularly someone as young as this man makes it a double tragedy.
“We are advised that there is a single gunshot wound to the head but at this stage these matters are the subject of an investigation. I can indicate that his service firearm was found at the scene.”
Mr Scipione said colleagues had spoken to the constable on the phone several times during the morning as part of routine checks.
He said the officer had been stationed at Sutherland since graduating from the academy in 2005. “We don’t know what it is that [has] caused the events of today to unfold. I would not suggest to you, though, that there is anything suspicious.”
Police said the station had external and internal surveillance cameras, from which film had been taken to examine the officer’s movements. The station was fitted with an alarm system, and officers working alone there wear an emergency alarm on the wrist.
Last night police were trying to contact the constable’s next of kin to inform them of his death. It is believed they live on the South Coast.
Tragic rookie told police he had tried to take his life
Alex Mitchell January 21, 2007
THE young policeman who killed himself at a single-person station had a troubled mental health history.
When Greg Norman Lundberg entered the NSW Police Academy at Goulburntwo years agohe wrote on the application form that he had previously tried to take his own life.
He successfully completed his training, graduated as a constable and was armed with a Glock semi-automatic service pistol.
And last year he was given his first major assignment: to manage the one-officer station at the Menai Market Place shopping centre.
On Sunday, January 8, (Saturday, January 7) the 29-year-old constable was found in the police station’s toilet with a single gunshot wound to the head. His Glock pistol was lying next to him.
Senior police are furiousthat Lundberg was “thrown in at the deep end” by his superiors and maintain that the service failed in its duty of care towards him.
A detective said applications for gun licences under the Firearms Act 1996 were rejected regularly if the applicanthad a history of self-harm or mental illness.
His death is now being investigated by the critical incident team comprising senior detectives drawn from the homicide squad, the coroner’s investigation unit, St George police and the force’s internal affairs.
They have taken possession of the station’s closed-circuit TV tapes showing Lundberg pacing up and down in a highly agitated state.
They have also learnt that neighbouring police spent an hour and a half trying to contact him by phone and radio before driving to Menai to find out what was wrong.
A report will be sent to the State Coroner who will decide whether to hold a public inquest.
Police facilities at Menai have a chequered history. About 15 years ago a fully operational, fully staffed station was opened on the Old Illawarra Road but a few years ago it became the headquarters of the dog squad.
Menai was then given a single-officer shopfront station in the shopping market.
Following Lundberg’s death, community leaders said they would reopen the campaign for a fully staffed station to handle the increasing level of street crime and antisocial behaviour.
The Police Association of NSW declined to comment on the incident while the investigation was continuing.
A CRITICAL incident investigation is under way into the sudden death of decorated Albury police officer Glenn Stirton.
Sgt Stirton, a police officer for more than 30 years, died after an incident at the Albury police station on Thursday.
In August, Sgt Stirton received the highest honour for bravery that can be conferred by the NSW Police Commissioner for foiling what police suspect was destined to be a massacre.
Sgt Stirton is the husband of Albury local area commander ( Supt. ) Beth Stirton, who has gone on immediate leave.
Three ambulance crews rushed to the scene after an emergency call from the station.
Officers from the Deniliquin local area command will investigate the circumstances of Sgt Stirton’s death and prepare a report for the coroner.
Acting Southern Region commander Gary Worboys said the force extended its deepest sympathy and condolences to Sgt Stirton’s family “and the wider police family”.
“Welfare support and counselling has been offered to the officer’s family and colleagues. Police will continue to do their job in this difficult time,” acting Assistant Commissioner Worboys said.
Wagga Superintendent Dave Simmons has been brought in to assist the command.
From Monday, Detective Insp Brad Blanchard will act as Albury local area commander while Supt Stirton is on leave.
Sgt Stirton’s bravery was outlined when Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione presented the NSW Police Force Valour Award to him during a ceremony at the police force academy at Goulburn.
Sgt Stirton and a colleague had gone to get lunch at the Eastwood Shopping centre in Sydney’s north in 2008.
While on their way, they were asked to check on reports of a man acting suspiciously at the centre.
Sgt Stirton and his colleague followed the man out of the centre and asked him to stop. He ignored their directions, pulled a pistol from his waistband and fired at the officers, narrowly missing the pair, who returned fire.
The man, Christopher Benardos, turned the gun on himself, and later died in hospital without regaining consciousness.
“It was nice to be recognised, although it is under tragic circumstances,” Sgt Stirton said at the time of the award.
Sgt Stirton transferred to Albury six months ago to join his wife.
If you need help, telephone Lifeline: 13 11 14, Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800, NSW Rural Mental Health Support Line: 1800 201 123, Upper Hume Community Health Service: 1800 657 573.
STIRTON, Glenn Howard
STIRTON, SGT VA Glenn Howard (Lenny) 10/9/1960 – 20/12/2012 Aged 52 years Late of Thurgoona (Albury). Formerly of the Central Coast Loved husband of Beth (Beryl). Loved father of Rachael & Tim. Much loved son of Mark and Maisie Stirton. Brother of Anthony and Rodney (deceased). Proud, Respected and Courageous member of the NSW Police family for 30 years. When once you have tasted flight, You will forever walk with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return. Flying above us forever The Funeral Service for GLENN will be held Friday, 28th December 2012, in the Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetery and Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale, commencing at 2.30pm. CREIGHTONS FUNERAL SERVICE Central Coast 4324-1533 ”Proudly Australian’
Sergeant Glenn Stirton has been honoured with a valour award.
A POLICE officer, who dodged bullets to protect Sydney shoppers from a shooter four years ago, has been honoured with a valour award.
Sergeant Glenn Stirton ran at an armed offender at an Eastwood shopping centre on March 10, 2008.
He and his partner narrowly missed several shots fired their way.
They returned fire but the shooter turned his gun on himself and later died from his injuries.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione presented Sgt Stirton with the Valour Award, the highest honour an officer can receive for bravery, at last week’s attestation ceremony at the Goulburn Academy.
Event – Attempt Murder of Constable Patrick McGuire – July 1841
Constable John McGUIRE in July, 1841.
Previous editions of this book ‘ Beyond Courage ‘ (and other works) have listed the death, near Goulburn, of Constable John McGuire. Recent research has shown that the constable’s name was actually Patrick McGuire, he was stationed at Queanbeyan, and he survived being shot and viciously assaulted in February, 1840 by bushrangers Patrick ‘Paddy’ Curran and James Berry. Both were later arrested and convicted of shooting Constable Patrick McGuire with intent to murder him..
McGUIRE, John
Constable
July, 1841
James In July, 1841, Constable McGuire was escorting two bushrangers, James Berry and Patrick ‘ Paddy ‘ Curran, to Berrima Gaol. Both prisoners escaped after shooting the Constable near Goulburn. No other details are known.
The Sydney Monitor and Commercial Advertiser ( NSW )
Monday 20 September 1841 page 2 of 4
Supreme Court. EQUITY SIDE
CIRCUIT COURT—BERRIMA. The Court was opened on Wednesday last, by His Honor Mr. Justice Burton, with the usual ceremonies.
Mr. Edmond Burton; the Clerk of Arraigns, having read over the proclamation against vice and immorality, the Jury were called over, when it appeared that several gentlemen had been summoned from Goulburn and other places, exceeding the distance of thirty miles, appointed by the Act. His Honor ordered them to be discharged.
His Honor then delivered a lengthy address, which our space will not allow us to insert in this publication.
Patrick Curran was first placed at the bar and indicted for ravishing, one Mary Wilmore, at Bungadore, ( Bungendore ) on the 8th of February, 1841.
It appeared by the evidence adduced, that the prosecutrix was the wife, of a labouring man, who resided near Bungadore, and that on the day stated in the indictment, her husband went to some place a few miles off. During her husband’s absence from home, the prisoner and a man named White, went into the hut and obliged the prosecutrix to make them some tea; the prosecutrix went out of the hut to procure some wood; when Curran followed her, knocked her down, and putting a knife across her throat, then committed the offence with which he was now charged.
The Jury found the prisoner guilty.
Patrick Curran was again placed at the bar, and indicted for aiding one Patrick Berry to shoot at a person named Patrick McGuire, with intent to murder him. The following are the circumstances of the case; the prisoner had been committed to take his trial, having been guilty of a variety of offences, and was sent, together with a man named Berry, towards Berrima, with an escort of two constables named McGuire and Wilmore. On their route, they stopped at a hut to have some tea; Wilmore left the hut, and having been absent for a considerable space of time, McGuire went to call him; at this moment, Curran and Berry made a rush and seized the constables’ muskets, which were left in the hut. They then came out of the hut; and, presenting the muskets at the constables, demanded the key of the handcuffs. Wilmore ran away, but McGuire rushed upon the prisoners and, seized Curran’s musket, and held Berry in such a way that he could not present his gun ; a scuffle ensued, and Berry got his gun released, and McGuire was then shot in the back of the head and shoulder, and was severely beaten by the prisoners as to remain for a long time insensible.
His Honor charged the Jury, and said that the point for their consideration was, whether Berry actually fired the gun, or whether it went off by accident during the struggle.
The Jury after about a quarter of an hour’s deliberation, found the prisoner guilty.
His Honor then passed sentence upon the prisoner.
The Court adjourned until Thursday.
Australasian Chronicle ( Sydney )
Tuesday 21 September 1841 page 2 of 4
Berrima Assizes Wednesday, September 16. This morning, about ten o’clock, his Honor Mr. Justice Burton, accompanied by the High Sheriff, arrived at Berrima, escorted by some of the most respectable settlers in the district; and shortly after the court was opened with the usual formalities. The royal proclamation against vice and immorality, and for the encouragement of piety and virtue, having been read by the judge’s marshal, and silence being commanded, his Honor delivered the following charge:- …….
Patrick Curran was then indicted for having committed a rape on the person of Mary Welsmore, a married woman, at Bungadore, ( Bungendore ) on the night of the 8th December, 1841.
Mary Wellsmore – I know the prisoner at the bar; he came to my house on the night of the 8th of December, about eleven o’clock; he knocked and asked me to let him in, and I refused; I then threatened to shoot him, and he said if I fired I should not live a minute longer; he then forced the door open; I had a child in my arms at the time; he then forced me to make him some tea; there was another man (White) along with him; I had no candles, and the light I had was by burning small dry wood and when I was going out for some more wood White would not let me go. Prisoner then said it was no …. use, he must have what he wanted ; I then ran out, and he followed me and knocked me down; I screamed and called out to White to come to my assistance; he did not come, but went to hide himself. Prisoner then took out a knife and drew it across my throat; I can swear it was the blade part he put on my throat, and said, you – – , if you do not be quiet I will cut your throat, and throw you into the waterhole.
The rest of the evidence was such as to render it unfit for publication, the prosecutrix having distinctly proved the capital part of the charge.
Cross-examined by Mr. Hustler.–I have been married seven years; I lived before I was married at Oliver and Smart’s, in Pitt-street, Sydney; I have three children; they were all born since I was married.; I never saw the prisoner before that night; I did not know his name was Patrick Curran; they told me that was his name; I tasted the rum; I did not drink it; they forced me to taste it; I did it through fear; they were there about an hour; it might be more; my husband was gone to Goulburn; the nearest hut is not a quarter of a mile, about five or six minutes’ walk; I shouted for assistance; no one came; the men told me next day they heard me; Mr. Griffiths told me next day that it was Curran, from the marks and description I gave of him; I said he had a blue jacket and white trousers, and a flat nose; Mr. Griffiths said it was Paddy Curran, and that he had insulted another female that day.
By the court -I came a free immigrant; I came in the Duchess of Northumberland; I lived only six weeks at Oliver and Smart’s, when I got married.
By a juror – White was brought singly when I saw them; Curran was also taken singly; the people told me Paddy Curran was taken, and I went to identify him.
Re-examined–I would have known the prisoner among six men; I should have picked him out of half a dozen.
Patrick Macguire– I am a constable in the district of Queanbeyan; I apprehended the prisoner at the Black Range, at Molonglo, about twelve months ago; John Nuttall was with me when I took him; prisoner had a pistol in his possession.; I knew Curran to be a runaway prisoner of the Crown.’
Mr. Hustler addressed the jury for the prisoner, commenting on the nature of the evidence, and said that it was such as the jury could not solely depend upon, and that in cases of this kind corroborative testimony ought always to be adduced, or else an accusation was easily made out, and very difficult to be defended by the prisoner.
The jury retired for about twenty minutes, and returned a verdict of guilty.
The prisoner was again placed at the bar, and indicted, as an accessory with one James or John Berry, for shooting at Pat McGuire, at the Ten-mile station, with intent, &c.
The jury, after deliberating about a quarter of an hour, brought in a verdict of guilty.
Sentence of death was passed. The prisoner said, in a loud voice, “You’re hanging a better man than the prosecutors;” and did not appear in the least degree moved by his fate.
Rachael Gai WILSON
13/01/2014
Rachael Gai Wilson
Constable
New South Wales Police Force
Class 266
Registered #: ?????
Died at Rydalmere, NSW,
Service: From ? ? 1996 to 22 September 1999 = 3 years Service
24 old
Suicide – shot – Service Pistol to chest
Stationed: Mt Druitt, Quaker’s Hill, Seven Hills, Penrith, Ermington Police Station – Plain clothes – Anti Theft Squad – Death
Funeral: Winston Hills on 28 September 1999
Rachael was a plain clothes constable performing proactive duties at Ermington, NSW.
Rachael suffered psychological injuries which were later declined by the insurer.
She slipped into a greater depression and subsequently died from a self inflicted gun shot wound from her own Service weapon, whilst On Duty, after she drove to Eric Primrose Reserve, Rydalmere.
A beautiful smile no longer shines, but her light lives on in the hearts of her loved ones and friends.
May Rachael forever Rest In Peace.
Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD
13/01/2014
Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Eggleston
aka Gabby
late of Maryland
Wife to Andrew McDonald # 22289
NSW Police Academy Class # 242C
“possibly” a Rejoinee
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 26685
Rank: Commenced training at Goulburn Police Station on Sunday 30 July 1989 ( aged 19 years, 5 months, 5 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 25 January 1990 ( aged 19 years, 11 months, 0 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Detective – appointed ? ? ? ( YES )
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Senior Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Detective Sergeant
Stations: ?, Inner City ( Sydney ), Newtown Detectives, Balmain ( 8 Division ), Newcastle, Lake Macquarie L.A.C., Northern Region Professional Standards
Service: From 30 July 1989 to 3 July 2013 = 23 years, 11 months, 3 days Service
Awards: No Find on Australian Honours
Born: Wednesday 25 February 1970
Died on: Wednesday 3 July 2013
Cause: Depression – Suicide – hanging – ON DUTY
Previous attempt in 2012 inside Newcastle Police Stn
Age: 43 years, 4 months, 8 days
Funeral date: Thursday 11 July 2013 @ 11am
Funeral location: Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland
GABBY is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – Canberra
* BUT SHOULD BE. Last checked 2 Aug 2019 24 Jan 2024
GABBY IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance – NSW Domain
Grave location: [codepeople-post-map]
Grave of Gabrielle Patricia McDONALD – nee Gabby Eggleston
Class 242C Goulburn – Attested 25 January 1990 Gabby EGGLESTON, Front row, 3rd from right
Late of Maryland
Gabrielle passed away on 03/07/2013.
Her funeral is proposed to be held at 11am on Thursday 11th Instant at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, 262 Sandgate Road, SHORTLAND.
Dearly loved wife of ANDREW, loving mother of JESSICA and JOSH. Loved daughter and daughter-in-law of CARMEL and NORM (dec’d) EGGLESTON, FRAN and WARREN McDONALD.
Sister and sister-in-law of PETER and MAREE, MEL and JULIE, MARIA and MARK, ANDREW and AREEYA, ANGELA and MARK, SUE and STEVE, PATRICK and CAROLINE, NICOLE and NIGEL, GREG and loved aunty of their FAMILIES.
The Relatives and Friends of GABRIELLE are warmly invited to attend her Funeral to be held in Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church, Sandgate Rd, Shortland on THURSDAY 11/7/13 Funeral Liturgy commencing at 11am. An interment will follow at Sandgate Lawn Cemetery.
Family of NSW policewoman who took her own life suing state for millions
Exclusive by the National Reporting Team’s Lorna Knowles
Updated
The family of a policewoman who took her own life is suing the state of New South Wales for millions of dollars, for allegedly failing to protect her from harm.
[blockquote]
Key points:
Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state
The claim alleges his wife did not receive adequate care after attending several traumatic incidents
It also alleges police failed to investigate a previous suicide attempt
Newcastle mother-of-two Sergeant Gabrielle McDonald developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression after witnessing a string of horrific incidents on the job.
She took her own life on July 3, 2013, the day after a police medical officer had declared her as fit for duty.
Her husband Andrew McDonald has filed three negligence claims against the state of NSW on behalf of himself and his two children, Jessica and Joshua.
His statement of claim, filed to the NSW District Court, said over the course of her career, McDonald attended numerous traumatic incidents, including domestic disputes, assaults, car accidents, suicides and murders.
She was particularly distressed by the drowning of a 17-year-old boy in 2009 and a double road fatality in 2010, but did not receive any counselling, debriefing or monitoring after the incidents, the statement of claim alleges.
In late 2010, she was promoted to Detective Sergeant in the Professional Standards Unit, Northern Region. But she struggled with the heavy workload, which included two stints relieving for her supervisor.
In 2012, McDonald attempted suicide in an office at the Newcastle police station, but police never investigated the incident.
“It’s investigation 101,” Mr McDonald, who was also a police officer, told the ABC.
“That’s what police do and it’s appalling that it was never done.”
Police medical officer found suicide attempt ‘was not genuine’
The day before McDonald took her own life, she was sent to see a police medical officer, Dr Naresh Verma.
Mr McDonald told the ABC, Dr Verma determined her previous suicide attempt was not genuine and he did not believe she had PTSD.
“All the staff thought well, OK, things must be on the improve, maybe Gabrielle is not sick at all, maybe she’s pulling the wool over our eyes and that was clearly wrong,” Mr McDonald said.
Dr Verma did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
The police force determined that McDonald should be transferred to another police station the next day.
According to the statement of claim, she was summoned to a meeting without warning and without a support person to be told she was being moved.
McDonald left the meeting in a distressed state, drove to a state forest and took her life.
Mr McDonald said he had one last telephone conversation with his wife.
“She said I can’t go on any more. I’m not getting better. I’m such a burden. They keep kicking me down at work. All I’m trying to do is keep my hours up. You know, this is hopeless,” he said.
“And I said: ‘You can’t do this’. I pleaded with her and begged her not to.
“She said I love you and the kids. We talked about all the things we’d done together, but nothing I said would make sense to her, she was just that determined to do it”.
McDonald ‘did not receive proper monitoring’
Mr McDonald’s lawyers allege that the police service ought to have known the meeting would cause her distress and that she was at risk of self harm.
They allege the NSW police force was negligent because it failed to maintain a safe system of work to avoid injury to McDonald.
It had also allegedly failed to provide her with adequate training to perform her duties and to take precautions for her safety, “putting her in a position of peril”.
The service is also accused of failing to provide adequate training on how to recognise the symptoms of psychiatric injury.
“The deceased did not receive any or proper monitoring of her condition while she continued to work in a stressful environment,” the claim states.
The claim also alleges the police force had failed to devise a system for the flagging of police officers involved in numerous distressing or traumatic incidents.
As a result of its negligence, McDonald had suffered a major depressive disorder, chronic PTSD, alcohol abuse and death by suicide, it is alleged.
Mr McDonald said he now suffered from an adjustment disorder with depression and anxiety.
He was on track to become a superintendent, before he was medically retired.
He is claiming about $900,000 in future lost earnings, in addition to damages and interest. He is also seeking damages on behalf of his two children.
Damages are limited to $750,000 in the NSW District Court, but it does have the discretion to lift the cap.
In a statement to the ABC, the NSW police force said it could not comment specifically on the tragic circumstances which led to the death of a serving officer.
“NSW police continues to improve its practices and procedures, having made significant advances over many years to minimise the psychological impact of policing duties on our officers, who frequently undertake stressful and difficult work,” the statement said.
“As a major priority, NSW police encourages the reporting of these impacts and offers a range of services to support, guide and educate our staff.
“These support services are comprehensive and effective.
“It is well understood that every officer’s circumstances are unique and most often extremely complex with regard to the impacts of psychological injury.”
Gabby was my partner Newtown D’s. She was rock solid, loyal and supportive. She spoke her mind and was honest in opinion and views.
Gabby was from the Eggleston family of the Hunter & loved horses and racing. She taught riding to kids with patience & care. Gabby also helped place horses with the Mounted Section NSW Police.
Along with Gabby & Deb Hayton, we had a tough feminine perspective to our office in the 90’s.
Sad to know when she was in need, Gabby felt alone.
Gabby was loved by many and will be missed by all!
Morgan James HILL
13/01/2014
Morgan James HILL
New South Wales Police Force
Goulburn Police Academy Class # ???
Regd. # 40683
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on ? ? ?
Probationary Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Constable 1st Class
Stations: Waverley
Awards: Commissioner’s Unit Citation for actions on Sunday 11 December 2005
Service: From 29 April 2005 to 27 March 2009 = 3+ years Service
Born: Tuesday 25 January 1983
Died: Friday 27 March 2009
Age: 26 years, 2 months, 2 days old
Cause: Severe PTSD – Suicide – self inflicted gunshot wound, with Service Glock, at Fishermans Rd, Malabar
Funeral date: Thursday 2 April 2009
Funeral location: Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church, 193 Avoca St, Randwick
Grave location: Ashes Interned at Botany Cemetery on 25 January 2010
RC6 – Roman Catholic FM 6 – 560
Morgan commenced his shift at Waverley Police Station at 8pm on the evening of 27 March 2009.
At 8.39pm, at Fisherman’s Road, Malabar, in his private vehicle, Morgan ended his life whilst suffering severe depression induced by the effects of anti-depressant medication he had been prescribed.
Morgan was born on 25 January 1983 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 29 April, 2005.
He was 26 years of age at the time of his death by suicide and stationed at Waverley, Eastern Suburbs Local Area Command.
Morgan is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of RemembranceBut Should be
MORGAN ( as of 2017 ) IS mentioned on the NSW Police Wall of Remembrance
* Stemming from the continued work of the wives of four Fallen NSW Police to Suicide – those four names will now be included in the newly refurbished NSW Police Wall of Remembrance, Sydney, as of 2017
Congratulations to those family members who fought the fight to right this wrong.
Commissioner Scipione has telephoned each of us today to advise that our loved ones names are being added to the replacement NSW Police Force Wall of Remembrance, to be unveiled in the next few weeks.
We would like to thank everyone who has offered support over a long and difficult journey and truly hope this sets a precedent for all police departments, not only in Australia but the global policing community.
It is so very important to remember that policing can and often does have a detrimental effect on those who serve.
We believe that the inclusion of suicide deaths, stemming from a work related psychological injury, is the most compassionate way of showing that the police hierarchy truly cares.
7 years ago this Easter Sunday, on 27 March, we lost our only brother and son, Morgan Hill. He took his life on duty that night. I would never wish this type of grief on another family. What has made it worse than losing Morgan though is being subjected to the stigma attached to suicide. With every year that goes by this is reinforced by NSW Police that Morgan’s death (and many before and since) are not worthy of the respect they deserve, because of HOW they died. But…we will continue to highlight this injustice and the shame is not on Morgan or our family…it is actually on YOU – the high ranking officials of the NSW Police Force – and leaders of any Force – that perpetuates this stigma by specifically excluding them from your Wall of Remembrance!
The response, from the Commissioner of Police, to the above Coroners report:
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione APM advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir. The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.”
I’d just like to say that it’s my hope sometime down the road after Code Nine has met with much success and people are being helped instead of silenced. I hope I never have to write another poem like this again. Because ending stories like this is what they’re all about. Please remember Mr Hills family and friends in prayer and ask that they be comforted by the memories they treasure. And not haunted by the way his life so suddenly ended. Thanks to all of you for praying. Sincerely Edwin C Hofert
This poem is one of a series of poems written by me for Code Nine Officer Needs Assistance And is intended to honor the fallen officers and their families that are to be featured in the finished documentary. As well as all others.
Morgan Hill – Commissioners Unit Citation re 2005 Cronulla Riots
NSW Police Force
Commissioner’s Unit Citation
Awarded to Constable Morgan Hill
Awarded for outstanding bravery and devotion to duty as a member of the New South Wales Police Force response to civil disorder within the Miranda, Eastern Beaches, St George, and Campsie Local Area Commands.
On Sunday, 11 December 2005, a protracted public order management policing operation commenced in response to a major civil disorder situation in the Cronulla area. The ensuing violent civil disorder continued in Cronulla and other areas, including Maroubra, Brighton, and Campsie, until Tuesday, 13 December 2005, when the situation was brought under control, with peace and good order restored by members of the Force.
The dedication and devotion to duty rendered by these police who were on the frontline throughout this protracted and dangerous policing response and operation exemplifies the courage, expertise, professionalism and commitment of the New South Wales Police Force.
While protecting members of the community and property from rioters, officers were subjected to various forms of assaults and missile attacks. These members of the Force, many of whom sustained injury, remained steadfast in the performance of their duty.
Constable Hill warrants due recognition for his courage and meritourious service during this period of civil unrest and thus is highly commended.
A P Scipione APM
Commissioner of Police
Dated 18 September 2008 but NOT signed.
‘Despite the above Commendation being dated 18 September 2008 ( 6 months before Morgan’s death ), the Certificate was handed to the family Posthumously on the very same day that they were also handed documentation stating that Morgan was NOT going to be mentioned on the Wall of Police Remembrance due to the fact he suicided.
These documents were not given to the family until late 2010.’
Today Tonight TV programme Channel 7, aired this show on Wednesday 23 July 2014.
The below comments were copied and pasted from the TodayTonightadelaide website on 23 March 2016
Jean Simpson says: The Government should be looking at a change in the whole health system , to ask the question why are so many young , old , just so many of the population coming down with Depression , (The Back Dog) . Definitely more counselling services. As well as the government ,we should all try to be more considerate , compassionate to all in society , there is so much suffering out there , and so many issues to deal with today than there was a few years ago. Teresa Cranes comments about the corruption , threats and underhanded dealings within the force has been talked about for as long as i can remember. It makes me really sad to see the young adults of today joining the force with all good intent , with a passion to help our society , only to find that they go to work each day fighting against an epidemic of corruption within there own work place. Like Teresa on this page i knew of an elderly Sergeant who has now retired , because he was told to take an early retirement . To find someone in the force that is not corrupt would be a hard task. How does the average person tell who is who anymore? So sorry for the ones that are trying to make this world a better place , for the opinion of a lot of people is that unfortunately they get tarred with the same brush , one can only imagine the affect on the innocent ones , Wow what a fight they have on there hands ! Love and light to all .
: 4 likes
Amanda Schultz says: Teresa Crane you got it spot on! My dad took hi s life in 1981, right in those good old corrupt years! Made a boss aged 32. Took his life aged 37. Left a wife and three daughters. What else do you do when your “boys” are on the take and the bosses buried their heads? I think there needs to be Royal Commissions to make the brass accountable and expose those we know were hypocrites and criminals. SA Police took a good man and destroyed him and his family….we live with it everyday.
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Peter Roberts says: Very interesting story and definitely needs looking into
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Heather Johns says: It’s unfortunate that they aren’t required to debrief or to talk about an issue without being labelled. It is not just police, fire, ambos, we see it a huge amount in defence too. Why can’t we remove the stigma of PTSD & depression & help those in need as they are helping us? Where is the government funding for more counselling services?
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Ross Beckley says: Great story and thanks for making this public. All emergency service personnel are suffering silently and their organisational management need to start addressing these concerns raised in this story.
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Trevor Hardy says: SAPOL officers need to find themselves a good private psychologist and see them regularly. You can work through problems and if SAPOL are going to continue to sweep the problems under the carpet, then members need to do it for themselves. Or quit. No job in this Universe is worth killing yourself over.
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Jessica Courtney Evans says: Yep…. Someone I’m my family was an officer in nz and took his own life. It’s tragic and awful. They need more support….
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Tanya Eldridge-Tregenza says: It’s no bloody secret it’s been happy for a long time.
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Lynette Millowick says: Missed out on story was working
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Clare Heiss says: Oh poo!! Was really looking forward to seeing it! Thanks for letting us know though!
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Today Tonight Adelaide says: Unfortunately we cannot load the video until it has aired in Perth – at the moment it looks like it may run tomorrow so the video won’t be online until Monday morning
: 2 likes
Berrick Boland says: Today Tonight, rocks.
: 4 likes
Lauren Busbridge says: Same with paramedics!!!!!
: 4 likes
Today Tonight Adelaide says: The video will be uploaded tomorrow
: 1 likes
Clare Heiss says: I can’t find the story in this link @TodayTonight
: 2 likes
Ann Krieg says: PTSD needs to be told and understood. We need to know what and how it happens and to whom. The service men, whether police, or army or navy or air, or whether it is from work and a bad boss or bad experience from an accident, we need to know. 🙂
: 3 likes
Berrick Boland says: The Forgotten 300 Facebook page come on and like us for the families of PTSD and Police suicide victims.
: 12 likes
Anne Heinrich says: Well I am only one of many people I know who admire the police for their kindness and care of those in need, their patience and persistence and tenacious spirit to keep people alive! Maybe if more people told them so (and I include the media) they might feel more appreciated and needed. Don’t give up guys- there are lots of us who think you’re great!
: 2 likes
Sandy McLellan says: I have known many Policeman, but one in particular tells me of the many who simply cannot cope with the ghastly things they have to deal with. We have NO idea how bad it is, very sad. They put their lives on the line for us all the time. Maybe they need much more support on the job and from us, the public.
: 3 likes
Tony Crowley says: They should cover SAPOL . We are not clean either
: 10 likes
John Hirst says: Be good to see it’s getting some publicity and not ‘swept under the carpet’. Lost a few good colleagues from this and there are so many more stepping close to the line with little or no support from the employer. Tony Crowley for your info.
Posted Monday 20 June 2016:
CORONERS COURT
Morgan James Hill:
Deputy State Coroner Mitchell On 9 September 2011 at Glebe and Parramatta
FINDINGS.
I find that Morgan Hill who was born on 25 January 1983 died at Fishermans Road Malabar NSW at about 8.39 pm on 27 March 2009 of a gunshot wound to the head, self inflicted while suffering severe depression.
RECOMMENDATIONS;
That a psychiatrist or psychiatrists be employed in the Health and Well being Unit of Welfare Safety Command or retained so as to ensure qualified psychiatric oversight of all police fitness assessments where mental health or emotional stability are an issue.
2. That appropriate criteria be developed and established to guide and inform police medical officers in assessing the fitness of police officers for various duties within the police force and the fitness of police officers to have possession of a firearm.
3. In particular, that the criteria so developed and established provide that fitness for duty and to carry a firearm is not merely a matter of the absence of a diagnosable psychiatric condition or mental illness.
4. That police medical officer be encouraged to explore with police officers referred by commanders for a fitness assessment the history of that officer and any current or recent medical diagnoses and treatment plan or plans and the identity of that officer’s medical practitioner and to seek the consent of the police officer to that medical practitioner providing appropriate medical information to the police medical officer and that unwillingness to provide that consent be among the matters to be reported to the referring commander.
5. That psychologists assisting in the preparation of fitness assessments be accorded independence from police medical officers.
6. That police medical officer be reminded of the provisions of the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 and, so far as the provision of information to commanding officers is concerned, be encouraged to act in accordance with its terms.
7. That the practice of placing reliance on psychological tests in the preparation of fitness assessments be reviewed by an independent expert.
8. That the freedom of commanding officers to make their decisions as to the removal or restoration of firearms informed by considerations other than those dealt with by police medical officers be encouraged.
9. That commanding officers be reminded of their entitlement to the provision of information pursuant to the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002.
10. That consideration be given to the establishment of a mentoring system of young officers by more senior officers with a view to the guidance, support and oversight of the performance of those young officers.
RESPONSE
On 2 April 2012, Police Commissioner AP Scipione AMP advised the Coroner as follows:
“The NSW Police Force established a Self Harm Prevention Advisory Panel (the Panel) in 2010, following a recommendation of the Deputy State Coroner Dillon in 2009 arising from the death of Sgt Ian Muir.
The role of the Panel was recently reviewed and amendments are currently being made to its charter to oversight the NSW Police Force response to Recommendations in all coronial matters involving self-harm by police officers.
”Please click here to link to a table which sets out the full Police Force response to the recommendations made by Coroner Mitchell. (Unavailable)
Denise HodderThis is hideous that these precious lives are lost and no one in power seems to care ….?
Clare HeissI can tell you, as Morgan’s sister, whom attended this inquest for the two weeks duration it ran, that our family have not once heard about any follow up to these recommendations. Furthermore my parents were invited to be on the “self harm committee” when it began, BEFORE the inquest mind you, but attended maybe two meetings and as far as we know either does not exist anymore or is called something else, but either way we have not been asked to continue to be a part of the panel in terms of reviewing the recommendations made by then Coroner Scott Mitchell (now deceased) nor any ongoing consultation as a family who have lost a police officer to suicide.
Two people have been arrested after a senior police officer died after sustaining critical injuries in an axe attack in Sydney’s north-west.
Police say Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson was among a number of officers called to a dispute between neighbours at ScheyvilleRoad in Oakville about 2pm (AEDT).
About two hours later, Detective Inspector Anderson was seriously injured in what is understood to have been an axe attack.
Det Insp Bryson Anderson killed with an axe on Thu 061212
After treatment by paramedics he was rushed to Windsor Hospital in a critical condition but died a short time later.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said a 19-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman had been arrested at the scene and taken to Windsor Police Station where they were assisting investigators with their inquiries.
Mr Scipione said Detective Inspector Anderson was from a police family and had left a wife and three children.
“They are, as you imagine, distraught, but taking strong support from not only their immediate family, but the police family.
“We will console officers that were part of this particular operation.
“They, as you would also imagine, are traumatised and all support services have been put around them.
“I’ve got to say the strength and courage that is being shown inside (the hospital), not only by the police that are there, but also by the family, is incredible.”
Photo: Police say the officer was called to a dispute between neighbours in Oakville.
Det Insp Bryson Anderson killed with an axe on Thu 061212
Mr Scipione said he could not provide too many details of the events leading up to the attack given the investigation was in its early stages.
“I understand the (neighbourhood) dispute did involve the use of some weapons, but again having said that, we want to get to the bottom of this investigation before we start making too many statements,” he said.
“Suffice to say it was a violent neighbourhood incident that caused the police to attend and there were many police there.
“Some time after they first attended, there was an interaction which led to the death of Inspector Anderson.
“I understand they were trying to communicate with affected parties and were looking to resolve this peacefully.”
Mr Scipione said Detective Inspector Anderson had worked for him more than 10 years ago and paid tribute to his skills as an investigator.
“He was nothing short of a role model to those officers that come after him,” he said.
“Today is a stark reminder how dangerous this job is. These people do this in such a way they put their lives before the lives of others.
“You have an idea what the price is today.”
Anyone with information about the incident are being asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers website.
RIP Bryson
A tribute from our Commissioner
Today ( Wednesday 12 December 2012) we honour a brave man. Bryson Anderson. A police officer, and so much more.
A man who was so deeply respected by the community in which he lived, worked and devoted much of his spare time.
A true man of the people. His service to the community was far greater than simply those days when he wore that blue uniform with such pride and distinction. And of course, Bryson was a loving husband, father and brother to his own family. To this family we owe so much. A debt of gratitude for the support you gave Bryson as he went about his duties. Police officers understand that each day they go to work, they put their lives on the line. This tragedy reminds us all of the sacrifice that goes with that understanding. Our community will always rely on men and women of courage who are willing to put up their hands to serve and protect. Bryson Anderson stood tall in their ranks. Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson, friend, you have left us with an enduring legacy, a standard to which we can all aspire and for which we are forever grateful. You will always be remembered.
Andrew Scipione
12 December 2012
Valedictory for Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson
Date
As delivered by NSW Police Force Commissioner Andrew Scipione APM
At 3.30pm on the 6th of December 2012, Detective Inspector Bryson Charles Anderson arrived at the scene of a neighbourhood dispute at Oakville near Windsor that had escalated beyond all reason.
He went to lend support to fellow officers who were seeking to bring matters to a peaceful resolution.
It was not to be.
The approach of police was resisted and Detective Inspector Anderson was fatally wounded.
Detective Inspector Anderson was rushed by ambulance to Hawkesbury Hospital but died as a result of his injuries.
Bryson Charles Anderson began his career as a trainee police officer on the 18th of August 1986 and attested on the 7th of November 1986.
His first general duties posting was here in Parramatta. That was followed by others to Granville and Ermington.
While at Granville in 1991, Constable First Class Anderson commenced criminal investigation duties, successfully gaining his designation as a Detective in November 1993.
Bryson’s designation was a defining moment in his policing career and he quickly displayed an aptitude and an enthusiasm for criminal investigation that was soon recognised by his commanding officers.
At Castle Hill, Task Force Boyne, Ermington, Rosehill and then within Special Crime and Internal Affairs, Bryson honed his detective skills. He was dedicated, analytical and meticulous.
A thoroughly good bloke. I worked with Bryson … and I can vouch for that.
In 2004, promoted to sergeant, Bryson returned to general duties. This time it was to Hawkesbury Local Area Command, where he was to spend three years as a supervisor.
In 2007criminal investigation was again to beckon, Bryson seizing the opportunity to return to Special Crime and Internal Affairs … now known as Professional Standards … where he applied his skills to covert investigations. There he was promoted to the rank of Detective Inspector in 2009.
What was to prove Bryson’s final posting was back in Hawkesbury. He took up the role of Duty Officer in Hawkesbury Local Area Command on the 19th of December 2010, and served with distinction in that role until the moment of his passing.
Throughout his service Detective Inspector Anderson undertook extensive internal training in his chosen policing specialisation.
He was awarded the NSW Police Medal; the National Medal; as well as the first and second clasps to the NSW Police Medal.
In 2003 he received a Commissioner’s Unit Citation for highly professional investigations.
He will posthumously receive the first clasp to the National Medal and the third clasp to the NSW Police Medal.
Impressive as they are, the bare facts I have recounted do Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson little justice. Those who knew him … know that Bryson the man transcended … in achievements and in potential … any chronology of this type.
Those that know it best of all are Bryson’s wife, Donna, and his three children, Olivia, Darcy and Cain. It is with them that Bryson, devoted husband and father, was closest. And it is they who, tragically, must now manage without his love, strength and support.
Bryson’s father, Rex; mother, Shirley; and brothers Warwick and Damian also know the calibre of the man. Bryson’s is a profound loss, but be assured his life was just as profound a credit to you. I know for certain that he enriched the lives of all of us in the NSW Police Force who had the good fortune to know him.
What the record does not disclose is Bryson’s wholehearted embrace of community service.
Even when on holiday, Bryson was thinking of what he could do for others. On packing his bags last year for Vanuatu, in with the board shorts and sunscreen he found room for gifts and sporting equipment for the local village kids.
The demands of policing are great: more than enough for most of us, and often more than a full-time job. But not for Bryson. He was retained as a fire-fighter, serving for eight years between 1994 and 2002 at Number 81 Station, Windsor, rising to the rank of Deputy Captain.
And it didn’t stop there. Bryson coached a number of junior soccer teams for the Colo Soccer Club. And on the day before he died he took part in the final leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, held in Windsor, an event which five months earlier he volunteered to organise.
Bryson loved the Hawkesbury area, where he lived and worked most of his adult life.
And innumerable people, from the Hawkesbury and elsewhere, loved and admired Bryson in return. His personnel file is full to overflowing with complimentary remarks and letters of appreciation, many from the community and victims of crime, moved to write in gratitude for the care, dedication and professionalism with which he went about his work.
In Vanuatu, upon hearing of his passing, the villagers whose lives Bryson had so selflessly touched while on holiday held a service in his memory.
He was equally admired by his fellow police officers, myself among them. On the one hand, a tenacious and committed police officer, driven to pursue offenders for the darkest and most serious of crimes. Yet retaining the most extraordinary empathy, compassion and concern for the victims of those crimes.
He showed initiative and leadership; intelligence and perseverance; dedication and humility; and, memorably, a ready smile and an engaging way. Bryson drew people to him, without guile and without effort. The workplace was a better place for him being there.
The tributes from his fellow officers were immediate and many. They tell variously of a proud husband and father, a keen motor cyclist, an active participant in sporting clubs, and, invariably, of a superb police officer.
He made his vast store of policing wisdom available to young officers but never imposed it. More likely were those officers to hear from Bryson an encouraging “Just play your natural game, it’s first class” – one of his favourite sayings – to go with some tip or insight he’d somehow manage to convey.
Reflecting on her career, one officer … echoing the thoughts of many others I am sure, wrote: “Bryson you are an amazing officer and an even nicer gentleman. I formed this opinion 20 years ago as a naïve female probationary constable. I still hold the same opinion now. You will be truly missed”
There can be no doubt Bryson will be missed.
He lived for the community, died serving it and deserved much better.
His death reminds us that law and order are not givens. They come at a price and that price, on occasion, is a prohibitive one.
With Bryson’s death we realise, suddenly, even if belatedly, that ours is a society worth defending.
We realise that our hard won freedoms and protections are vulnerable and easily demolished.
We realise that not only is each individual’s life precious and fragile … but that so too is our way of life.
We meet Bryson’s death with grief and tears, but that can’t be allowed to suffice.
If he could lend us his voice, I’m sure Bryson would agree that now is not the time to be timid or defensive. It is not a time to be apologetic, nor a time for retreat.
The anger and regret we all feel – for Bryson’s sake and for the sake of all of the officers who have fallen before him – need to find constructive expression. As a society we need to rise up to repudiate violence, however and wherever we can, with all the energy we can muster.
For his wider police family … of which all police officers and their families are a part … Bryson’s death will neither be forgotten nor be in vain. Bryson’s courage and conviction inspire us now … and will into the future. We will continue to protect and serve the community as Bryson did. Of that he can be sure.
It is my honour today to posthumously confer two awards on Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson.
The National Police Service Medal: recognising Bryson’s ethical and diligent service in protecting the community.
And the Commissioner’s Valour Award for the conspicuous action and exceptional courage he displayed at the incident in Oakville where he lost his life. After being attacked with a knife and sustaining wounds that would prove fatal, Detective Inspector Anderson went to the aid of a fellow injured officer without hesitation.
In part the valour citation reads:
Conferred for conspicuous merit and exceptional bravery whilst under attack during the execution of his duties at Oakville on Thursday, 6 December 2012.
By his conspicuous actions and exceptional courage in a dangerous situation, Detective Inspector Anderson evinced the highest standards of the New South Wales Police Force and is so conferred with the Commissioner’s Valour Award.
I am deeply honoured, and indeed privileged, to be able to represent every member of the New South Wales Police Force here today to farewell a man who served his community with courage, honour, and distinction.
A loving husband and father.
A prized friend and colleague.
A police officer.
Our prayers are with you Bryson. May you rest in peace.
Homily for the Funeral Mass for Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson, St Patrick’s Cathedral Parramatta, Most Rev Anthony Fisher OP, Bishop of Parramatta
Wednesday, 12 December 2012 02:57:38 PM
Any death is a loss. The death of a loved one before time is worse. A senseless, violent, innocent death is even more appalling. But a death in the line of duty hits us especially hard. Why is that?
Our word police comes from the Greek word polis, meaning the city-state, its citizens and civilisation. Police are appointed to keep order in the polis and protect persons and property. The word politician comes from the same root, for they too work for the people, with our bureaucracies and courts. Yet none of these is in the front-line the way police are.
We all shelter behind our police officers’ sense of law and order, their character and courage, their instincts, reactions, negotiating and other skills. Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson devoted his life to providing such shelter for his family, friends and community. He lived for this and this was a gift to us all; he died for this and this affronts us all.
His fellow officers also mourn his passing, as Commissioner Scipione testified. I first got to know the Commissioner and his people in the lead-up to World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008. It was a time when hundreds of thousands of youth threw them kisses and told them God loved them and they loved them. If only it was always so! One such beloved of God and people was described in our first Scripture reading today (Wisdom 4:7-15). Being virtuous, untarnished and God-pleasing, the man in that passage was ready for God sooner than most.
Bryson’s fellow officers tell me he was such a man, and that his integrity inspired them. That his death has left them in shock is a sign of that bond within the police family said to be as thick as blood.
Of course, policing was literally in Bryson’s blood, as his father and brother both served in the force, Rex for many years here in Parramatta. When I saw Donna and the family after the terrible news, there were policemen present as if they were his own brothers. Such a death must make all officers aware of their own mortality, must bring to the surface daily anxiety for the safety of the public, their comrades and themselves, and so too for beloved spouses who might be widowed or children orphaned. But it also brings out into the open their fraternity and courage.
Thousands are here today to pray for Bryson and the Anderson family, to share in their natural sorrow and supernatural hope. But proud as they must be and however comforted by our presence, they still have the very personal grief of ones who’ve lost husband, father, son and brother.
Perhaps they are asking themselves: How could an argument over a bird cage end so horribly? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why does God permit such things? Well, God could have made us robots, obedient to His every command. Instead He took the great ‘gamble’ of making us free, able to choose good or evil. He does everything to persuade, encourage, inspire us to live lives of service and self-sacrifice.
Some of us do. Most of us try. Some don’t. When bushfires, floods or other natural evils hurt innocent people, we know that these are part and parcel of a world that is beautiful and bountiful but has its own law and order.
The real mystery for us is man-made evil: why human beings do terrible things to each other, why they misuse the godlike gifts of freedom and intelligence. Like those in our first reading, we “look on uncomprehending”. Few of us will face death by an assailant’s knife or have that happen in our family. But when our own crosses come, we too must try to make some sense of it. In Jesus Christ, we believe, God fully embraced our human condition, including His own violent death as an innocent man before his time.
Why was it necessary for Christ to suffer? Because that was where humanity was. To redeem us, He had to go where we are. So God became a real human being, with friends and enemies, hopes and fears, who wept for His dead friend Lazarus, and later cried out tired, frightened, abandoned.
God in Jesus Christ is the great realist: no evasion, no false front, no easy escape; no pretending away the sin of the world or the suffering of ordinary lives. But He did what any man, any God-made-man, could do.
The problem of evil drives some to atheism, some to despair. But it draws some to the Crucified One, to unite their sufferings with His, as He united His whole being with them at Christmas and beyond.
This doesn’t ‘magic away’ all that is unpleasant; we may still ache that someone we love has been stolen from us. Our hearts may be troubled as Jesus’ was (John 12:27, 13:31). But in time faith can bring new perspective, the courage to face the human condition, the grace to grow through this stage of our life, and compassion for others who suffer also.
Any faith or philosophy worthy of us must face evil straight on. Every police officer knows this. Euphemisms and positive thinking will not do; neither will glorifying evil or emptying it of its mystery. From the side of the Crucified God flows the blood and water of human life and death. But from there, too, flows hope for every hurting heart, every fragile person, even for the dead.
2012 is the sesquicentenary of the New South Wales Police Force and was supposed to be a year of celebration for them. Yet it began with the killing of Senior Constable Dave Rixon and ends with the killing of Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson. He is the 14th to be killed on duty since 1980. Death is no respecter of office, rank or character. And so this week a family, a force, a whole state join Christ in His Passion. We are joined with Him in His mortal combat with evil: proposing the good and beautiful and true to all; preventing violence and injustice where we can; comforting the victims, those who suffer for justice’s sake and those who mourn them.
In our Gospel passage, Christ called Himself the Way, the Truth and the Life for every troubled heart (John 14:1-6). His life offers us the way, as it did to Bryson, the way of justice, mercy and peace. Christ’s death offers us the truth, as it did for Bryson, the truth about human fragility and promise, freedom and intelligence for good or evil. And His Resurrection offers us the life, as it does for Bryson, life eternal for every noble soul.
2012 should have been a year of celebration for police officers and still it should be: a celebration of what is most worthy in the force and in those who bring it credit. It should have been a time of pride and joy for the Anderson family: that will come later, as they treasure what Bryson gave to them and to us all.
But for now: “We seem to be giving Bryson back to you, O God, who gave him to us.
Yet, as you did not lose him in giving him to us, so we do not lose him by his return. For
you do not give as the world gives, O Lover of souls: what you give you never take
away … For life is eternal, and love immortal, and death is only an horizon, and the
horizon is no more than the limit of our sight.
“Lift us up, strong Son of God, that we may see further. Cleanse our tearful eyes that
we may see more clearly. Draw us closer to yourself, that we may know ourselves to be
nearer to Bryson, now that he is with you. And while you prepare a place for us (John
14:1-6), prepare us also for that happy place, that where you and he are, we may be
also, for evermore.” (Prayer of Fr Bede Jarrett OP)
Bryson ANDERSON IS mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra
Mitchell Barbieri and his mother Fiona plead guilty to their roles in killing of decorated officer Bryson Anderson
Amy Dale
The Daily Telegraph
November 05, 201412:24PM
Police officers arrive for the trial for Fiona and Mitchell Barbieri charged with the murder of Inspector Bryson Anderson. They pleaded guilty to their roles in his death at the start of the trial this morning. Picture: John Grainger
THE mother and son charged with killing decorated police officer Detective Inspector Bryson Anderson have pleaded guilty on the morning their trial was due to start.
Detective inspector Bryson Anderson, 45, who was killed when he attended a neighbourhood dispute in Oakville on December 6, 2012.
Mitchell Barbieri pleaded guilty to murdering the 45 year old officer, while his mother, 47, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty of the officer’s manslaughter.
The pleas came as the jury were about to be empanelled and begin to hear the opening address.
Bryson Anderson was killed on December 6, 2012, after being called to the pair’s Oakville home, in Sydney’s north west.
Fiona Barbieri’s plea to manslaughter is being accepted on the grounds of “substantial impairment”, the court heard.
It is expected a sentencing hearing will take place next year.
Mitchell Barbieri, 21, is facing a mandatory life sentence without parole for murdering a police officer.
The Supreme Court was packed with family, colleagues and friends of Det Insp Anderson, some of whom shed tears as the guilty pleas were announced.
Artist impression of Fiona Barbieri and her son Mitchell in the dock of Central Local Court last year. Artist impression by Bernd Heinrich
Flanked by police officers, Det Insp Anderson’s brother Warwick Anderson thanked the investigating officers for their “support and strength” and the hard work of the DPP.
He said the family was very mindful of the officers who were with his brother on the day he died and who continued to suffer physical and psychological injuries.
“The thoughts, care and prayers of our family go out to them,” he told reporters outside court.
There was still a significant way to go for his family to come to terms with the “senseless and tragic loss of Bryson”, he said
Justice Robert Hulme adjourned the case until next Wednesday, when the Crown will begin calling evidence on sentence.
Defence counsel will give their submissions to court on November 24.
Family and friends of murdered Detective inspector Bryson Anderson and police
Funeral location: St Paul`s Anglican Church, Church St. Tamworth
Grave location: lawn portion of the Tamworth Regional Council Cemetery, Showground Rd. Tamworth.
GPS: -31.0903969, 150.9007111
David IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance
David RIXON
David RIXON
Funeral for David Rixon
memorial plaque at the front of Tamworth Police Station.
Stubby cooler
SenCon David Rixon
Senior Constable
Father of six, shot and killed at Tamworth, NSW, Australia, today Friday 2 March 2012. May you forever Rest In Peace with the rest of our Brothers and Sisters who have paid the ultimate price in Policing.
There is a memorial fund to support the family of S/C Rixon who are dealing with a loss at this time. Donations can be made to this fund with the following details: Account name: David Rixon Memorial Fund, Account number : 269978 (add S1 at the end for Internal transfer by PCU members) Police Credit Union BSB: 815000
David and Fiona Rixon have six children.
David James RIXON – touch pad at National Police Wall of Remembrance, ACT
Details of Death:
Shortly before 0800hr on Friday, 2 March 2012, Senior Constable Rixon from Tamworth Highway Patrol stopped and spoke to the driver of a vehicle at 10-12 Lorraine Street, West Tamworth for the purposes of a random breath test. As Senior Constable Rixon approached the vehicle, the offender drew a firearm and shot him. Senior Constable Rixon was able to return fire from his service pistol, which hit the offender. Senior Constable Rixon was able to place ahandcuff on the offender, before he collapsed from his injuries and died at the scene. He was unable to be revived.
Senior Constable Rixon joined the New South Wales Police Service as a Trainee on 28 October 1990 and was attested as a probationary Constable at the New South Wales Police Academy, Goulburn on 26 April 1991.
He was initially posted to Hamilton Patrol in Newcastle and soon after was posted to Belmont Patrol.
He was confirmed as Constable on 26 April 1992.
He commenced duties in Highway Patrol at Waratah in the Hunter area on 12 February 1995, and shortly afterwards, on 7 May 1995, he transferred to Gunnedah Highway Patrol.
On 14 July 1996, Senior Constable Rixon transferred to Tamworth Highway Patrol, where he remained posted until the time of his death.
He was posthumously awarded the Commissioner‘s ValourAward.
RIXON, David James
Dearly loved husband of Fiona
Loving father of Renae, Jemma, Scott, Mathew, Hayley and Patrick.
Loved son, stepson and son-in-law of Gwen & Max Russell, Ken Rixon, Kathryn & Robert Brooking, loved step brother and brother-in-law of Katie and Beau, Tammy, Leanne (dec), Rachelle, Nadina and Damien.
The relatives and friends of David Rixon were respectfully invited to attend his funeral.
The Service was appointed to commence at 10.30 am, Thursday, 8th March, 2012, at St Paul`s Anglican Church, Church St. Tamworth, thence for interment in the lawn portion of the Tamworth Regional Council Cemetery, Showground Rd. Tamworth.
Presented to the family.
The inscription reads:
27947
Senior Constable
David James Rixon
Oxley Local Area Command
NSW Police Force
2nd March 2012
* * * * *See flyer for a huge fund-raising evening that we are holding at City Diggers Club, Wollongong, on the 2 June. As you can see the entertainment line up is unbelievable.Please feel free to share this flyer with your friends. $5,000 from the evening will be donated to the Senior Constable David Rixon Memorial Fund. David left behind a wife and 6 children when he was tragically killed recently. His friends from within the New South Wales Police have set a target of $1,000,000. This is our way of showing support. Please do not put off getting your tickets as we are capping the evening at 250.
NSW policeman honoured after on-duty death
It was meant to be a regular day for Tamworth police officer and father-of-six David Rixon.
The NSW highway patrol officer was carrying out a routine breath check in 2012 when the driver, Michael Jacobs, pulled out a revolver and shot him in the chest.
He returned fire, hitting Jacobs in the abdomen, leg and shoulder, called for back-up and handcuffed Jacobs before collapsing.
His killer went on to receive life-saving surgery and a life sentence.
But Senior Constable Rixon died at the scene, leaving behind a heartbroken wife and six children.
Three years later, he has been honoured for his bravery.
Sen Const Rixon is one of 25 people to receive an Australian Bravery Decoration on Wednesday from Governor-General Peter Cosgrove.
Mr Cosgrove says Sen Const Rixon and the other recipients are a source of courage, support and inspiration, but he acknowledged there can be devastating consequences resulting from their bravery.
“Sadly, there are those whose brave acts mean they are no longer with us,” he said.
“Today, to their families, I express the nation’s sadness at your loss but pride in your loved ones’ actions.”
The Australian Bravery Decorations recognise acts of bravery by members of the community who selflessly put themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.
The recipients are nominated by members of the public, with the governor-general deciding the awards.
They vary from Mustafa Ruhi Akkan and Nattapat Penpanussak, who helped police apprehend a man who stabbed three backpackers in 2000, to Jamie Alan Strong, for helping rescue two people trapped in a burning house in 2014.
One of the highest honours, the Star of Courage, is awarded to a 21-year-old RAAF pilot named James Wallace Hocking.
In 1944, he saved his crew and the English township of March by flying his stricken bomber away from civilian danger. He died when the plane crashed into a nearby field.
There are four levels of decoration and a Group Bravery Citation, an award for a group of people involved in a single incident. They are the Cross of Valour, the Star of Courage, the Bravery Medal, Commendation for Brave Effort and the Group Bravery Citation.
Police Commissioner statement: “The NSW Police Force Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, has commended Senior Constable David Rixon for his service as a NSW Police Officer, following the announcement that he will receive a posthumous Australian Bravery Award.
Snr Cst Rixon died after being shot during what should have been a routine traffic stop in Tamworth on 2 March 2012.
Snr Cst Rixon stopped the man, believing him to be a disqualified driver, when the man produced a gun and shot him.
Despite being critically injured, Snr Cst Rixon returned fire and arrested the man.
Commissioner Scipione said Snr Cst Rixon was a deserving recipient of a posthumous Australian Bravery Award.
“Snr Cst Rixon died under tragic circumstances while protecting the community in what should have been a routine traffic stop,” Commissioner Scipione said.
“His death affected his family, friends, the local community, and the entire NSW Police Force; and today’s award is testament to the fact that his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“Snr Cst Rixon’s courage and conviction under incredibly difficult circumstances continues to inspire us and strengthen our resolve to protect the community,” Commissioner Scipione said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Troy Grant said this award is testament to the courage and dedication the men and women of the NSW Police Force display every day.
“Senior Constable Rixon put his life on the line to protect the community and he paid the ultimate price. “This award recognises his actions and his bravery on that day. “My thoughts are with Senior Constable Rixon‘s family and the NSW Police Force.”
An officer and a gentleman: Remembering Senior Constable David Rixon a year on
By Kitty Hill
March 1, 2013, noon
A SOMBRE anniversary falls today as police officers and community members join the family in remembering fallen Tamworth police officer Senior Constable David Rixon a year after his death.
On March 2, 2012, Senior Constable Rixon was fatally shot on a routine traffic stop in West Tamworth.
Senior Constable Rixon’s wife Fiona and their children will be joined by officers from across the state to mark the anniversary, many of whom have spent the past week completing a charity walk in his honour.
Officers will form a sombre march to Tamworth Police Station to arrive at 8am, where the flag will be lowered to stand at half mast.
NSW Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione, will unveil a plaque honouring Senior Constable Rixon, during a ceremony at Tamworth Community Centre at 11am.
Fiona Rixon said she will take a private moment during the day to remember her husband, the man who she described as her “other half”.
“He was my best friend, we did absolutely everything together, everything,” she said.
About 60 police officers of the 140 who walked arrived in Tamworth last night after a 370km journey titled “Our Mates, Our Families,” which began in Wyong last Monday.
Rainy weather welcomed the walkers as they completed the last few kilometres of their 10-day trek, ending at the Longyard Hotel.
Senior Constable Rixon’s stepdaughter and Probationary Constable Jemma Galea, who walked alongside four officers from the Oxley Local Area Command, said today’s memorial services would be bittersweet for her and her family.
“I guess it’s hard to say how it will affect you until the day,” Probationary Constable Galea said.
Completing the last of the walk alongside her mother yesterday, she was wearing the bright pink cap she wore for the the duration of the walk.
The cap was the subject of a personal joke between her and her stepfather.
“David said to me when I bought it, ‘When are you ever going to wear that hat?’” Probationary Constable Galea said.
“So now I wear it, to remember him.”
Senior Constable David Rixon’s stepdaughter and probationary constable Jemma Galea who wore a bright pink cap as a joke between her and David. Photo: Marina Neil
Ms Galea said the walk was harder than expected, and she was full of “sore muscles, blisters and a bit of sunburn”, and everyone was looking forward to a hot shower before the fundraising event at Wests’ Diggers last night.
The walkers camped along the way, passing through six police local area commands, many of whom sent officers to Tamworth to help out in the days and weeks after the tragedy.
Organising police from Tuggerah Lakes said they were inspired by the Cooee recruitment march, a famous walk that began in Gilgandra in 1915 with 35 men, its ranks swelling to 265 by its end in Sydney, all eager to join the Australian war effort for WWI.
Oxley Local Area Commander Superintendent Clint Pheeney said his officers were honoured to take part in the walk, and ceremony, to remember their former colleague.
“David’s death was heartbreaking for all of us at Oxley Local Area Command,” Superintendent Pheeney said.
“But when a police officer is killed it’s not only the local police and their immediate colleagues who are touched, it’s the entire police force and community as a whole.”
“I’m extremely proud of all the officers who have taken part in the gruelling walk as it shows their resolve and determination to honour their mate, and to raise funds for not only his family, but the families of other fallen officers.
“I’m particularly proud of all of David’s colleagues here at Tamworth who have continued to do their job on a daily basis since his death, even though all their hearts have been broken.
“David has never been far from our minds and this will certainly be the case tomorrow, especially during the ceremony. The plaque will serve as a permanent honour to him in the community and one I’m sure all who knew him will be extremely proud of.”
Commissioner Scipione said the relay-style walk from Wyong Police Station to Tamworth was raising money for both the NSW Police Legacy and the David Rixon Memorial Fund.
“Last year we experienced the tragedy of losing two of our officers and so we all have extremely heavy hearts today,” Commissioner Scipione said. “However the ceremony gives us the opportunity to reflect on Senior Constable Rixon’s life and career, and to remember the outstanding husband, father, friend and colleague that he was.
“The walk and ceremony are testimony to the honour that exists among those who have chosen to become part of the police profession. It also demonstrates our respect, our grief and our resolve to continue, despite the hardships that may confront us.”
The official ceremony will take place at 11am at Tamworth Community Centre in Darling St.
Michael Allan Jacobs becomes first person jailed for life without parole for killing police officer, Senior Constable David Rixon
Amy Dale, Chief Court Reporter
The Daily Telegraph
October 04, 20132:45PM
THE man who shot Senior Constable David Rixon has become the first person jailed for the term of his natural life for murdering a police officer.
Michael Allan Jacobs has this afternoon been sentenced to life with no parole for murdering Sen-Constable Rixon, the crime described by Justice Richard Button as “a life irrevocably taken”.
Jacobs is the first person to be convicted of murdering a police officer since the O’Farrell government introduced legislation in 2011 to ensure such an offence is punished by a sentence of life with no parole.
He said the murder of a police officer “is a direct assault on the system of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law.”
“The offender informed the intention to kill him,” Justice Button said.
“That intention may have been held utterly fleetingly and irrationally … but it has been established to a criminal standard.”
Court artist sketch of Michael Allen Jocobs.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione and NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher joined more than 20 police officers in court for the landmark sentence.
Sen-Constable Rixon was shot once in the chest with a bullet fired from a .38 calibre revolver after approaching Jacobs’ stopped Holden Statesman for a random breath test early on March 2 last year.
The policeman returned fire and hit Jacobs three times, leaving the man with “an out of control drug addiction” critically wounded, before he collapsed from his injuries.
“The offender almost died from his injuries,” Justice Button said, adding that in his dying moments Sen-Constable Rixon had handcuffed Jacobs to arrest him.
The court heard Jacobs screamed “ah die, I’m sorry sir, sorry” just after the shooting and while “lying gravely wounded could be heard repeatedly saying ‘I’m sorry.'”
But Justice Button said he couldn’t be more satisfied “that the offender is responsible for this murder.”
Police arrived shortly after the shooting but Sen-Constable Rixon couldn’t be revived, while Jacobs received lifesaving surgery and eventually recovered after spending more than a month in hospital.
The Crown claimed he was high on ice at the time, making him more prone to aggression, and shot the policeman to avoid being locked up and convicted for repeatedly driving unlicensed.
Justice Button said of Jacobs‘s motive to avoid “being briefly refused bail or at worst a sentence of a matter of months … the offender saw fit to fire a handgun at a police officer.”
He said Sen-Constable Rixon would have had “less than a second before the shot was fired.”
David Rixon murder: Michael Jacobs gets life in jail
The sun had only recently risen over the roof of Tamworth police station when the white, dark-windowed bus arrived.
One by one about 30 officers filed on and settled in for a six-hour journey that they hoped would end with justice for a fallen comrade and perhaps a small measure of closure for those left behind.
Eight hours and 400 kilometres later, a NSW Supreme Court Justice gave the family, friends and colleagues of murdered police officer Senior Constable David Rixon the result they desired – a life sentence for the man responsible for his death.
In a landmark decision, Michael Alan Jacobs, 49, became the first person sentenced to life in prison under new laws requiring a mandatory life sentence for anyone who murders an on-duty police officer in NSW.
”Let this serve as an example to all those in the future who think it’s OK to harm our police officers,” NSW Police Minister Mike Gallacher said after the sentence was handed down.
”This decision today draws a line in the sand.”
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione after the sentencing at Darlinghurst Courts with Fiona Rixon, (and family) wife of Senior Constable David Rixon and his colleagues from Oxley LAC. Photo: Dallas Kilponen
Nearly a quarter of the Oxley Local Area Command were present to hear the sentence, forming a guard of honour as Senior Constable Rixon‘s widow, Fiona Rixon, and their children left the court.
”I’m very proud of my children – we’ve been through this hurricane, tornado, roller-coaster ride, whatever you want to call it, for the last 18 months,” an emotional Mrs Rixon said.
”Hopefully now life will be a little bit more quiet.”
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione with a family member after the sentencing at Darlinghurst Courts. Senior Constable David Rixon was killed while on duty. Photo: Dallas Kilponen
On March 2 last year, Jacobs shot and killed Senior Constable Rixon, a 40-year-old father of six, during what was to have been a regulation breath test on Lorraine Street, West Tamworth.
During a month-long trial earlier this year, the court was told that the experienced highway patrolman had recognised Jacobs as a disqualified driver and followed him from nearby Gunnedah Road to the quiet side street.
Senior Constable Rixon’s police microphone recorded him saying ”G’day mate, how you going?”
In an increasingly distressed voice he is then heard to say: ”I’m just gonna breath test you, buddy.”
Jacobs then fired a single shot from a .38 calibre pistol that went straight through Constable Rixon’s left wrist and into his chest, puncturing his heart and lung.
The officer returned fire, hitting Jacobs in the leg, abdomen and shoulder. He collapsed soon after.
Jacobs is heard to say ”die … I’m sorry sir, sorry, sorry”.
The officer’s last act was to handcuff his killer.
Jacobs later claimed that it was not he but a local drug dealer, Terrence James Price, who fired the fatal shot after the policeman ”interrupted” them in the middle of a drug deal, but this was rejected by the jury.
In sentencing Jacobs to life in prison, Justice Richard Button said the 49-year-old had no apparent motive for committing the crime and had shown little or no remorse.
”It is almost impossible to believe that, in order to avoid a short period of being denied bail or, at worst, a sentence of a matter of months for driving whilst disqualified, the offender saw fit to fire a handgun at a police officer,” he said.
”The murder of a police officer in such circumstances is a direct assault upon our system of parliamentary democracy and the rule of law.”
As well as providing some relief to Senior Constable Rixon’s family and fellow officers, the life sentence represents a landmark decision for the state’s mandatory life sentencing laws.
Jacobs’ case was seen by many as a test of the laws, introduced in 2011, which require judges to impose a life sentence on any offender found guilty of murdering an on-duty police officer.
Crucially, Justice Button found that Jacobs’ crime met all the criteria set out in the mandatory life sentence legislation, including that he had acted with the intention to kill the officer.
”That intention may have been held only fleetingly and utterly irrationally, but nevertheless I consider that it has been established to the criminal standard,” he said.
”The result is that the mandatory life sentence is to be imposed.”
The Hon. MELINDA PAVEY: My question is addressed to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services. Will the Minister inform the House about National Police Remembrance Day?
The Hon. MICHAEL GALLACHER: I thank the honourable member for her question and I again welcome the opportunity to share the details of this significant day for the New South Wales Police Force with the wider community. National Police Remembrance Day was observed on Friday 28 September 2012. It is a day held in memory of police officers across the country who have died in the line of duty. On that day I had the honour of attending a service held at the New South Wales Police Wall of Remembrance in the Domain at which the 251 officers who have given their lives to protect the people of New South Wales since the formation of the New South Wales Police Force 150 years ago were rightly honoured.
It was a solemn reflection of the ultimate sacrifice those officers made and their legacy. The service included special acknowledgement of Senior Constable David Rixon, who was killed on 2 March 2012 whilst on duty in Tamworth. Senior Constable Rixon‘s tragic death was a salient reminder of the dedication police give to the service and protection of our communities. In upholding the law and keeping the people of New South Wales safe, police put their lives on the line on a daily basis. National Police Remembrance Day honours the courage and bravery of all police officers across the country. It is also an important day to remember police officers who have lost their lives as a result of illness and in other circumstances.
National Police Remembrance Day recognises the families of all serving police officers and the families of those who did not make it home at the end of their shift. New South Wales Police Legacy is a not-for-profit organisation that looks after the families of deceased police officers in New South Wales. The organisation does an invaluable job providing financial and emotional support to more than 1,000 widows and widowers and 200 children across New South Wales. Importantly, New South Wales Police Legacy ensures that these families remain part of the wider police family. The police family is a close-knit group of people who support each other and their families.
Also in attendance at the service at the Wall of Remembrance was 12-year-old Elayna Day and her grandmother. Elayna was only six years old when her father, Sergeant Graham Clifford Day, died but she remains a firm member of the police family. She is the proud recipient of the 2012 Commissioner’s Scholarship. The New South Wales Police Legacy scholarship will assist Elayna as she enters high school next year to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She is a prime example of the fine work undertaken by New South Wales Police Legacy in supporting the families of our fallen police officers. The need for an organisation like Police Legacy highlights the risks associated with being a police officer. It is a difficult, stressful and dangerous job. In informing the House on the significance of National Police Remembrance Day, I would like to take this opportunity to thank police officers across the State, all of whom are serving and protecting the people of New South Wales. Their commitment is acknowledged and respected, their bravery and courage is honoured and admired and I thank them for their contribution in ensuring that we have a safe community.
Rank: Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on 25 June 2006
Probationary Constable – appointed 30 January 2007
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Final Rank: Posthumously promoted to Detective Constable
Service: From ? ? ?to 9 September 2010 = ? years Service
Stations: Bathurst, Campsie, Bankstown
Cause: Accidentally Shot – friendly fire
Event location: Cairds Avenue, Bankstown
Born: Tuesday 29 May 1984
Died on: Thursday 9 September, 2010
Age: 26 years, 3 months, 11 days
Funeral: 16 September 2010 at St Andrew’s Cathedral, central Sydney, NSW
The constable was accidentally shot during the execution of a search warrant in Bankstown on 9 September, 2010. He was posthumously awarded Commissioner’s Valour Award.
At the time of his death the constable was aged 26 years and had joined the New South Wales Police Force in 2007.
Shot officer awarded posthumous promotion and valour medal
Date
William Crews remembered at funeral
Tributes to William Crews from his brother and the NSW Police Commissioner at his funeral in Sydney.
NSW police officer William Crews, who died during a drug raid a week ago, has been posthumously awarded the Police Commissioner’s Valour Award and promoted to detective.
The 26-year-old trainee detective had been with the force for just three years when he was accidentally shot by a fellow police officer during the operation in Sydney’s southwest on September 9.
He loved his job and gave it everything that he could offer and I believe that this was why he was so successful in his chosen profession. He was a larrikin and loved to laugh but also knew when the job had to be done.
About 5000 well-wishers, mostly made up of members of the NSW Police Force and including members of the emergency services, public and political leaders, gathered in and outside of St Andrew’s Cathedral in central Sydney to pay their respects at his funeral.
Officers carry the coffin into the cathedral. Photo: Peter Rae
After graduating from Goulburn Police Academy in 2007, the newly promoted Detective Constable Crews served at Campsie Local Area Command before he was rapidly promoted to the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Squad earlier this year.
It was an extraordinary achievement, NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said at his funeral today.
“William was not in the NSW Police Force for long, but by anyone’s record, he was on a rapid upward path,” he said.
Fellow officers carry the coffin to the altar. Photo: Peter Rae
Positions within the State Crime Command were highly sought after, Mr Scipione added.
“It is a place where our most-skilled detectives want to go,” he said.
“If you get there at all, it’s usually after a long apprenticeship.
William Crews.
“If you get there quickly, it is because you have something that sets you apart.
“And William had that certain something.”
Along with the Valour Award, for “conspicuous merit and exceptional bravery” during the raid at Bankstown, Mr Scipione also posthumously promoted Constable Crews to the rank of detective.
The detective constable’s coffin, draped with the Australian flag and native flowers, was carried into the church by officers including his brother, Constable Ben Crews. ( #41398 ).
Moments earlier, a pianist played an uplifting version of the pop music ballad He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.
Ben Crews described his younger brother as a larrikin who loved to laugh, loved his job and motor bikes, camping and farm life.
“He was man of great achievement, a man of integrity, a man of loyalty and a man of honour, a man of ethics and, lastly, a man who never gave up and kept fighting to the end,” Ben Crews said.
“I will never forget you and miss you with all that I have.
“I know you will be looking down upon us today with that smile which touched and enriched the lives of so many, thinking how lucky you were to be loved so much by so many people.
“Rest in peace mate.”
Senior Constable Ben Kemp( #34819 ) from Det Const Crews‘ home town of Glen Innes, where it is believed he will be buried, told police mourners the fallen officer was a reason for them to keep getting up each day to go to work.
“His legacy is our legacy …” he said.
“He is 15,000 of us …
“He made a difference.”
The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney Dr Peter Jensen said the family had set an example for the community on how to grieve.
They had met with the officer who accidentally shot Det Const Crews to assure him they did not hold him responsible for his death.
“In particular, we want to thank you for showing us how to forgive,” Archbishop Jensen said.
“Like it or not, some people in your position may have responded with anger and even cries for vengeance.”
After the service, police officers formed a guard of honour down George Street.
The funeral procession included mounted police, a police band and colleagues from Campsie Local Area Command and the Middle East Crime Squad.
TO his brother he was Bill; to his uni mates he was Will; to his police colleagues he was Crewsy.
To the thousands of strangers who yesterday attended the funeral of the slain constable despite never having met him, William Arthur George Crews was a hero who represented everything that is good about the force.
More than 5000 people, including 2300 uniformed police officers, looked on at Sydney’s St Andrew’s Cathedral as Constable Crews was remembered as a loyal and honest man who died just as he was beginning to realise his potential.
The 26-year-old trainee detective was accidentally shot dead by fellow police officer Dave Roberts during a drug raid in Sydney last week.
Sergeant Roberts was among the mourners yesterday, having been publicly reassured by the Crews family earlier this week that he was not to blame for the tragedy.
NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione described Constable Crews as a brave young officer whose career was on “a rapid, upward path”.
“William Crews didn’t lose his life on the 9th of September; he gave his life,” Mr Scipione said. “And he gave it in the very way that he lived — in the service of others.”
Constable Crews had only recently been deployed to the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Squad, which was a reflection of his abilities, the Police Commissioner said.
“If you get there at all, it’s usually after a long apprenticeship,” Mr Scipione said. “If you get there quickly, it is because you have something that sets you apart. And William had that certain something.”
Mr Scipione said Constable Crews, who grew up in Glen Innes in northern NSW, would be honoured with a posthumous designation of detective constable. He also posthumously received the Commissioner’s Valour Award for “exceptional courage” shown during the fatal drug raid.
Constable Crews‘s older brother, Ben, who is also a policeman, said his younger sibling was a “larrikin” who always looked out for others.
“He was man of great achievement, a man of integrity, a man of loyalty and a man of honour, a man of ethics and, lastly, a man who never gave up and kept fighting to the end,” Constable Ben Crews said. “I know you will be looking down upon us today with that smile which touched and enriched the lives of so many, thinking how lucky you were to be loved so much by so many people.
Mr TONY STEWART (Bankstown—Parliamentary Secretary) [1.46 p.m.]: Yesterday I travelled to Glen Innes where I attended the funeral of Detective Constable William Arthur George Crews, known by his family, his friends and the police community as Bill or Crewsy. Also in attendance at the funeral were the Premier of New South Wales, Kristina Keneally; the Minister for Police, Michael Daley; the Speaker of the House, Richard Torbay; the New South Wales Commissioner of Police; police commissioners from other States; high-ranking police officers throughout New South Wales; and more than 500 general duties police officers. Also present were family, friends and community members; people lined the street. It is tragic to attend the funeral of a person who has passed away at 26 years of age. It is even more tragic when the courageous person—a member of our New South Wales Police Force from my electorate of Bankstown—was killed in action. The Bankstown community is really hurting. I have received many condolences, more than 1,000 at this stage, from friends and constituents of Bankstown who want to say one simple thing to the family: Sorry.
Yesterday the funeral was presided over by Reverend Chris Brennan, Vicar of the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Glen Innes; Reverend Alex Thomas, Police Chaplain of Bankstown Local Area Command; and Reverend Alan Lowe, Senior State Police Chaplain. It was a beautiful service. In addition, friends of Bill Crews gave a wonderful rendition of aspects of his life, and the opportunities that he afforded to them and to others in the Glen Innes community. It was one big family coming together to celebrate this great man’s life. At 26 years of age this man had lived three lives in terms of his contributions and achievements. This funeral and the State funeral, which was held last week at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney, have had a profound impact on me and my understanding of the Police Force.
Last Thursday, following the State funeral, more than 400 police came to Bankstown to attend the wake, which was held with minimal notice at Bankstown Sports Club. I pay tribute to Bankstown Sports Club for providing the facilities, services, food and beverages. It was an opportunity to bring the brothers and sisters of the New South Wales Police Force together as a family to recognise not only the achievements of Constable Bill Crews, posthumously Detective Constable Bill Crews, but also the work of our police officers. I will read to the House a poem recited by Constable Kemp at last week’s funeral. It is important for us as members of Parliament to note the words. The poem reads:
Ben
Stay strong brother. Nothing we say can change what’s happened.
Your brother, our brother, died for what’s right.
He gave his all for what we believe in. He did what you would do.
He is the reason why we get up each and every day and go to work to keep our streets as safe as we can.
He is you. You are him. We are him. He gives us hope.
He is the reason why we will continue to get up and go to work.
Stay strong brother. He is gone but we will always remember his courage and strength in the face of grave danger.
You will survive and grow stronger, we will grow stronger with you.
Stay strong brother. The ultimate sacrifice was paid by one of New South Wales’ finest.
He lays peaceful, knowing he has done all for our cause, his cause.
Stay strong brother. His legacy is our legacy. He is us. 15000 of us.
We will continue to stand and fight, fight with all our heart for what we believe is right.
To protect our families, to protect the weak, to protect the helpless, to protect our way of life as Australians.
He did not leave us in vain, none of us will.
Stay strong brother. Fight or flight is a word we learn early on.
And fight your brother did, and to that end he makes us all proud, because that is what is expected of a New South Wales police officer, and that, my brother, is what he delivered.
Stay strong brother. Not many people live in your world, his world, our world.
Our society takes for granted what he did for us, what you do for us, what we do for them.
It is an unforgiving, terrible, gutless world sometimes, most times.
But every now and then someone makes a difference, he made a difference—a big difference.
Stay strong brother.
He is their hero, our hero, my hero.
He is Will Crews. May he rest in peace.
PROSECUTORS will appeal the seven year sentence given to Philip Nguyen, the man responsible for the death of trainee detective William Crews. NSW Attorney General Greg Smith released a statement this morning saying he has been informed by the DPP Lloyd Babb SC that they “have decided to appeal against the sentence handed down to Philip Nguyen.”
The 57-year-old was sentenced to at least seven years behind bars, but with time already in custody he will be eligible for release in September 2017.
He pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Constable Crews, who was killed from a bullet to the neck while on a raid of a Bankstown garage in September 2010.
The gunshot which killed the promising 26-year-old officer came from his colleague’s gun, but the court found Nguyen had been responsible for the death by starting a shoot-out with police.
In sentencing him to a maximum of nine years and six months in prison, Justice Elizabeth Fullerton said “although he didn’t fire the shot which killed him, he caused his death.”
Mr Smith and Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione said on the day of Nguyen’s sentence earlier this month they hoped the DPP would appeal.
Constable Crews’ father Kel said outside the courtroom following the sentence “it doesn’t seem to us to be appropriate for our family, for the police and for the community.”
“He has given his life in the line of duty, we have been sentenced to life- the sentence that has been given down has been nothing to what we have been sentenced to,” Mr Crews said.
The matter will be mentioned in the Court of Criminal Appeal later this year.
THE incident lasted just 2.8 seconds – from the time police shouted “search warrant” to the last of five bullets being fired. For three years Detective Senior Constable Dave Roberts, 42, has been struggling to understand how a routine warrant ended with his mate killed from a bullet he fired.”For a long time I couldn’t think clearly about the matter,” Roberts said.
In 2010, his team from the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Squad were in the carpark of a Bankstown unit block to search drug supplier Philip Nguyen, 55.
It was considered so low-risk that detectives walked into the garage without guns drawn.
Constable Crews, 26, had just joined the squad as a highly recommended recruit. He was carrying a folder under his arm.
Extensive intelligence checks would tell police Nguyen was not armed.
Then they spotted him.
Roberts remembers an incredibly cramped space, Nguyen walking quickly out of his garage, the muzzle of his gun flashing as it fired, and Crews promptly returning fire three times.
“I’ve dropped what I was holding, drew my gun and fired once,” he said. “All that took less than three seconds.”
His words slow as he recalls regrouping with his colleagues behind a brick wall when the shooting stopped. They realised Bill was missing.
“We were looking down the garage … we saw Bill lying motionless.”
He exhales deeply before continuing.
“I was expecting to see Nguyen on the ground as well. I was hoping like crazy my round had struck him.
“About 10 seconds after it dawned on me that my round may have struck Bill.” Roberts‘ world fell apart after that night – his colleagues’ too. The commanding officer who approved the warrant later quit the force and to this day blames himself for the whole incident.
Another detective who saw the tragedy unfold self-medicates with alcohol and medication. He is a mess.
Roberts suffered the most. He has held his silence since but agreed to share his story in the hope it might assist others suffering extreme trauma.
His path has been a lonely one. It is the only friendly fire case in NSW Police Force history where a policeman has died in the line of duty.
After the incident he was taken to hospital and treated for injuries caused during a grief-stricken rage. His knuckles still bear the scars from that night as he tried to punch holes through brick walls inside the garage.
He woke to discover Nguyen was in custody and uninjured, ending any hope his bullet struck its intended target.
A carload of senior police would arrive on his doorstep later that evening to break the news his bullet struck Crews.
“That was one of the worst days of my life.”
At his lowest point Roberts was gambling heavily and dependent on Xanax to regulate his moods. He also began experiencing debilitating panic attacks. He had previously never gone near a poker machine now he was addicted. His marriage of 18 years nearly collapsed.
“I lost thousands over a 12-month period. Initially I played low amounts _ $10 at a time _ but on occasions I would put in $500. It was an escape … a very expensive way to numb the mind.”
With the help of sessions at a post-traumatic stress clinic he managed to walk away from gambling in April last year but there would be other struggles.
Crews’ desk had been left untouched when he returned to work a month after the incident. Little reminders of him were everywhere. They exchanged two emails just before heading off that night.
“I’ve only just deleted them,” Roberts said. “I kept them for two years.
“When I hit send on those emails everything was good. Bill was still alive. They’re a painful reminder.” Compounding his grief were reports suggesting the search was “botched”, implying he was clumsy or ill-prepared.
“It hits hard,” he said. “I knew the word `botched’ wasn’t a nice word. I looked it up and the definition is everything I’m not.”
Nguyen‘s solicitor would later assert in court that Roberts, a stickler for safety precaution, was the only officer wearing a ballistic vest that night. Incorrect. Another detective, Tom Howes ( # 40442 ) was wearing body armour – and for good reason. Howes was with Roberts the night of December 27, 2007, when a Comanchero bikie pointed a gun in their direction during a traffic stop, prompting two shots to be fired.
Both officers, ever since, insist on body armour.
Until just a few months ago, Roberts said he could not forgive himself. Nagging questions were dogging his mind. What if he had aimed better? What if the bullet had been two centimetres to the right? What if the gun was angled higher?
He would return to the Bankstown garage several months after the shooting with two police colleagues – one a tactical weapons expert, the other a detective – to reconstruct the incident and seek their impartial advice.
Statistically it was impossible to replicate the circumstances of the shooting. The whole thing was a tragic, freakish one-in-a-million, they said.
“I beat myself up for a long time over this,” Roberts said, citing family, close friends, police colleagues and the police chaplain, Frank, as those who brought him back from his living hell. “I don’t `what if‘ so much anymore. I don’t blame myself anymore.”
Nguyen has been sentenced to seven years jail over the death of Crews that night. Prosecutors have appealed, saying the punishment was “manifestly inadequate“.
Roberts is still in the force, but in a different command. He has several important reasons for staying – he wants to set a positive example for people and show life can go on after even the worst tragedies. The job, he says, is an extremely noble profession. But a major factor that is close to his heart is Crews‘ mother. “I made a promise to Sharon … She said if we left the cops it would compound her grief.”
On September 8, the anniversary of Crews’ death, Roberts will visit the memorial. Every year he goes by himself, looks at Crews‘ name, and remembers that night and his colleague in private.
“There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about what happened and not a day goes by where I don’t think about Bill. And there hasn’t been for the past three years.
“I think about Bill only being a young man and he had everything ahead of him.
“I know he was well-loved by his family, by his friends.
“I know there isn’t a day that goes by (that) they wouldn’t miss him either.”
National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra. TOUCH PLATE DETECTIVE CONSTABLE WILLIAM ARTHUR GEORGE CREWS
Officer’s death hits local police hard
By BRENDAN ARROW
ANOTHER LIFE LOST: Chifley Local Area Command Acting Inspector Lionel White ( # 24873 ) said police in Bathurst have been personally affected by the death of Constable William Crews in Sydney on Wednesday night. Photo: BRENDAN ARROW 091010
POLICE in the ChifleyLocal Area Command have been personally affected by the death of trainee detective William Crews.
The 26-year-old died in a Sydney hospital after he was shot while carrying out a drug operation on Wednesday night with seven other officers from the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Squad in Bankstown, in Sydney’s south-west.
The officers were fired upon outside the targeted property in Cairds Avenue about 9pm. Constable Crews was hit in the head and neck.
Philip Nguyen, 55, has since been charged with shooting with intent to murder and discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Geehad Ghazi, 27, has been charged with possession of an unauthorised firearm.
Yesterday, Acting Inspector Lionel White said the tragic situation in Sydney had personally impacted on a number of officers who knew Constable Crews.
“It is a very shocking situation, a couple of the officers here at the Bathurst Police Station knew him and have been left very upset by the situation,” he said.
“Some of the officers worked with him and trained with him before he became a detective.
“For those officers, we are offering them support and counselling during this tough time.”
Reminding people of those officers who lost their lives in the Bathurst area in the line of duty is a memorial board naming the 13 policemen who have died in the line of duty.
Since Trooper Robert Lovell McDougall died in 1853 near Sofala, 12 officers have fallen in the line of duty in Bathurst area with Sergeant Paul Mitchell Quinn the last, on the March 30, 1986.
Acting Inspector White said the latest death in Sydney brought to the forefront the difficult circumstances that police can find themselves in daily.
“On top of the very mundane things we do every day this is a stark reminder of the dangers police officers can face while in the front line,” he said. “This very much reminded us of the risk officers sometimes have to take while in the line of duty.
An inquest into the shooting death of a Sydney police officer in a botched drugs raid five years ago has found errors in the planning and execution of a search warrant, stemming from “inadequate training” and “ineffective supervision”.
Constable William ‘Bill’ Crews was unintentionally shot by a colleague in returning fire from a drug dealer, in the underground car park of an apartment block at Bankstown in Sydney’s south west in September 2010.
He later died in hospital.
In handing down his findings, New South Wales Coroner Michael Barnes said Crews was killed as a result of “cascading, compounding errors“.
“Sadly, it seems likely that had these errors not occurred Bill Crews may not have died,” Mr Barnes said.
Outside the Glebe Coroners Court, Crew’s father Kelvin Crews said he was emotional.
“Our family has tragically been affected for the rest of our lives,” he said.
“It’s a tragic incident that’s occurred and we never want it to happen again.”
Young and ‘relatively junior’
Crews was “a good bloke and a good cop” committed to learning his new role as a detective in the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Squad.
On September 8, 2010, the 26-year-old was one of several “relatively junior detectives”, who thought they were attending a routine search after being tipped off about a man dealing cocaine and heroin from a garage to Middle Eastern crime families, including the Hamze and Kalache families.
None of them had advanced weapons training and none were prepared for what unfolded, according to the coroner.
William Crews’ father Kelvin speaks to the media outside the inquest into his son’s death.
When the group, led by Crews, entered the basement, they headed towards the wrong garage.
Affected by drugs and with little English, 58-year-old Philip Nguyen fired on the seven undercover officers who were not displaying identification, thinking they were robbers.
Detective Senior Constable Dave Roberts returned fired whilst trying to get cover.
The coroner said Detective Senior Constable Roberts did not know exactly where Crews was at the time and his movement meant he could not control where his gun was pointing when it fired.
This is contrary to police procedures and training.
Risk assessment ‘critically compromised’
Police expected a drug deal would occur at Nguyen’s garage that night involving Middle Eastern crime families; however, the operation was deemed low-risk.
The NSW coroner was highly critical of the risk assessment and its approval by more senior ranking officers.
The court heard Detective Inspector Michael Ryan( # 20029 ) sought to downplay the risks by suggesting Nguyen, an Asian male, was less likely to possess weapons or attack police because “Asians tend to be businessmen”.
Inspector Ryan also asserted the Kalache family was “a spent force”.
Mr Barnes said the risk assessment was also informed by inadequate intelligence gathering and reconnaissance, which could have prevented the officers attending the wrong garage that night.
“To merely drive by the premises and stop outside briefly when two inhabitants of the unit block were able to facilitate access was unwise and unnecessarily scant,” Mr Barnes said.
The coroner noted NSW Police had made improvements in the way risk assessments were now conducted and in training and oversight.
Whilst body armour would not have saved Crews, the coroner also noted NSW Police was planning to introduce soft body armour vests that would clearly identify the wearer as a police officer.
“I am satisfied NSW Police has rigorously engaged with each of the inadequacies highlighted by the circumstances in which Detective Bill Crews died,” Mr Barnes said.
Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione has refused to say if he would consider disciplinary action against the officers involved, saying he would need to first read the coroner’s report.
Officers carry the coffin into the cathedral. Photo: Peter Rae
Fellow officers carry the coffin to the altar. Photo: Peter Rae
William Crews.
