UPDATE: Disturbing anti-police graffiti has been discovered near the site of a tragic shooting in Porepunkah that left two officers dead and another injured. The graffiti, which reads “f— the police,” was found on a shed owned by North East Water, just four kilometers from the shooting scene. This shocking act of defiance comes as authorities intensify their search for the suspected shooter, Dezi Freeman.
The vandalism, which also includes the phrase “cops everywhere, justice nowhere,” was reported to local authorities earlier today. The defaced shed, identified as part of the town’s dosing plant, is located on Roberts Creek Road near Back Porepunkah Road. This graffiti has emerged against the backdrop of heightened tensions following the shooting on August 26, which resulted in the deaths of Officers Neal Thompson and Vadim De Waart-Hottart.
Despite a recent scaling down of police presence in the area, a significant number of officers remain deployed as they continue their search for Freeman, who is suspected of opening fire on law enforcement during a warrant execution for a sex offense. Following the incident, Freeman fled the scene and has not been seen since. Authorities are deeply concerned about his whereabouts and are actively investigating potential leads.
In a somber reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement, police paused for reflection on September 29 to honor those who have died in the line of duty as part of Police Remembrance Day. The ongoing investigation includes a standing reward of $1 million for information leading to Freeman’s arrest. Anyone with details is urged to contact authorities at 1800 333 000.
The emergence of this graffiti has drawn significant attention and criticism from community members, reflecting the intense emotions surrounding the recent events. As the situation develops, both police and the community remain on high alert, seeking justice for the fallen officers. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue their efforts to apprehend the suspect.
