First Major Rape Case Involving Vic Police Officer And Handled By New Taskforce Was Discontinued

A landmark rape case involving a Victoria Police officer has been discontinued because “there were not reasonable prospects of conviction”. It was the first major case handled by the Australia-first Sexual Offences and Family Violence Unit, a dedicated taskforce established late last year to deal with family violence complaints against police. But it’s not off to a great start. The Victorian senior constable was charged with one count of rape and another of sexual touching without consent in February. The alleged assaults were reported to police in 2021 and he resigned immediately after. Police said the alleged assault occurred while the officer was off-duty. But it was revealed on Tuesday the case was discontinued in late August before it could proceed to trial. “The decision was made on the basis that, having regard to the available evidence, there were not reasonable prospects of conviction on either charge,” an Office of Public Prosecutions spokesperson said.

“That conclusion was based on careful consideration of the evidence and having regard to the standard of proof applicable in criminal cases — beyond reasonable doubt.