Sniffer Dogs: False Positives and Limits to Police Powers
One of the most controversial tools in the armoury of police when it comes to enforcing drug laws is the use of drug detection dogs. These dogs were introduced after the 2000 Sydney Olympics to catch drug suppliers, but have...
One-Punch Attack Leaves Young Man in Coma
Three teenagers on the Gold Coast have been charged over an alleged one-punch assault in Surfers Paradise that has left a 21-year old man fighting for his life. The alleged victim, Thomas Dover, was walking on Ferny Avenue in Surfers...
Lawyer Guilty of Sexual Assault
A 35-year old lawyer from London is facing prison time after his drunken behaviour got out of control at a Christmas Party at the prestigious London Rowing Club, leading to convictions for ‘racially-aggravated assault’ and ‘sexual assault’. Festive celebrations went...
Are E-Cigarettes Legal?
Electronic cigarettes or ‘vapes’ are becoming a popular alternative to smoking, but there’s some confusion about whether they are actually legal and if so, whether they are subject to anti-smoking laws. The answer is not simple - lawmakers around the...
Not Charged with Terrorism Despite Allegedly Making Death / Injury Threats to NYE Celebrations
40-year old Damian O’Neil was arrested at Sydney Airport after disembarking a flight from London to Sydney. He was charged with ‘sending documents containing threats to kill or or inflict grievous bodily harm’ under section 31 of the Crimes Act...
Police Claim Major Success in War on Drugs
“This job started with just a thread of information to the NSWPF’s Drug Squad two and a half years ago”, NSW Police Commissioner Mark Jenkins told a reporter. “That thread has helped us keep more than a tonne of illegal...
Off-duty police officer allegedly brandishes gun whilst drunk
Police officers are permitted to use their powers around the clock, whether or not they are on-duty. This means they can exercise powers of arrest and search, give move-on directions and even issue fines whilst they are off-duty. And while...
Community Services Stretched to Limit Over Christmas
Holidays can be a stressful time - extra financial strain, perceived social expectations and excessive consumption of alcohol can add tension to family relationships. For many, the holiday period can be a catalyst for arguments – or even abuse. Many...
Christmas Gone Wrong
Christmas Day is a time to gather with family and friends to rejoice in the yuletide spirit. But for some, a long day of drinking, conversation and festivities can spark pent up emotions and have dangerous consequences. It was reported...
The Delay in Prosecuting the Death of Lynette Daley: A Nation’s Shame
Lynette Daley was already dead by the time paramedics arrived at Ten Mile Beach in northern NSW. It was around 7 am on January 27, 2011 and the 33-year-old mother-of-seven’s body lay bloodied and brutalised. Two men, Adrian Attwater and...
