Statement by the Hon. Ann Vanstone QC
Independent Commissioner Against Corruption

As a result of an ICAC investigation, on 22 March 2021 two South Australia Police officers were charged by the Director of Public Prosecutions with one count each of aggravated assault.

The Director will allege that in the early hours of 19 October 2019, several mobile police patrols became involved in an extended pursuit of a man suspected to be driving a stolen vehicle.

The man eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, running through a number of properties before hiding. Police located him and directed him to raise his hands, and to then lie on the ground, which he did.

It is alleged that a 35 year old male police officer from Valley View then kicked the man a number of times to the torso.

It is also alleged that shortly afterwards another male police officer, a 35 year old from Lightsview, approached the man where he was handcuffed and seated on the ground, and forced the man’s head to come into contact with the concrete footpath.

In each instance it is alleged that the offence was aggravated by reason of the abuse of the officers’ positions of authority.

Both officers have been summonsed to appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on 21 April 2021 at 10am.

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For media enquiries please contact 0428 389 493 or media@icac.sa.gov.au.
The publication of this information has been authorised by the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption under section 56 of the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Act 2012.

Related Downloads:
ICAC Public Statement - 14 April 2021