Sergeant Flannery, who for many years has been in charge of the Flinders street, Melbourne, police station hanged himself on Tuesday morning in the office which he occupied at the station. The office is a very small building, six feet by six, and with a roof which is only about eight feet high. Deceased was found hanging by a window-blind cord, which had been tied to the roof, and then passed in a slip-knot around his neck. The determination of the deceased was evidenced by the fact that, not having sufficient length in which to accomplish his object, he had drawn his legs up by bending the knees, and even then his feet were barely off the ground. Had he relaxed in this effort, his feet must have reached the ground and taken the weight off the cord. A loose end of the latter he had twisted around his right thumb, and the hand was across his breast in a line with the shoulder, over which the cord hung. The body was fully dressed, with the exception of the jumper. No letter or documents of any kind were upon the body. During the past week it had been observed that deceased was very despondent and gloomy.
Stations: Mudgee, Gilgandra, Dubbo, Wellington, Grenfell, Bathurst x 2, Forbes ( for 7 – 8 months )
Service: From ? ? 1897? to 29 September1915= 18 years Service
Awards: ?
Born: ?
Died on: Friday 1 October 1915
Cause: Suicide by firearm
Inquest held: Saturday 2 October 1915
Age: 42
Funeral date: ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ? in Sydney alongside of his 3 brothers & mother
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Forbes Court House location
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Leader ( Orange, NSW ) Monday 4 October 1915 page 1 of 6
POLICE CONSTABLE’S SUICIDE.
First class Constable Claude William Bovard, who was convicted at Forbes and fined last week for robbing a prisoner of £1, ended his life on the steps of the Forbes court house on Friday last by putting a bullet from a revolver through his brain.
Bovard was stationed at Grenfell prior to going to Forbes, and came of one of the most respectable families on the Richmond River. His death will be a great shock to his mother, brothers and sisters, who reside at Lismore. His first station after leaving the depot in Sydney was Mudgee; from there he was drafted to Gilgandra, thense to Dubbo, Wellington, Grenfell and Forbes. He was comparatively a young man, and, being of a sensitive nature, no doubt the degradation to which he had fallen was too much for him to face, and he sought relief by committing felo de se.
The Sydney Morning Herald Tuesday 5 October 1915 page 6 of 14
AN EX-CONSTABLE’S SUICIDE.
FORBES, Monday.
Claude William Alexander Bovard, an ex-member of the Police Force, shot himself dead with a revolver on the verandah of the Forbes Courthouse on Friday afternoon. At the coroners inquiry on Saturday morning a verdict of suicide was returned. Deceased was 42 years of age, and a native of Berrima. He had been 15 years in the force.
National Advocate ( Bathurst ) Thursday 7 October 1915 page 4 of 6
Forbes Policeman’s Suicide
TOOK HIS DISMISSAL TO HEART ” I AM AN HONEST MAN ” INQUEST ON EX-CONSTABLE BOVARD.
A coronial inquiry was held at Forbes concerning the death of ex-Constable Claud Alexander Bovard (42), who killed himself with a revolver on Friday last. Bovard had been convicted of having robbed a prisoner of £1, and was dismissed from the force, but always strongly maintained his innocence. He conceived a great dislike for Constable Fuller, who gave evidence against him. and declared to the Clerk of Petty Sessions (Mr. Wickham), just before he shot himself, that Fuller would walk over his blood. He then shot himself on the Court House verandah with Fuller’s revolver.
Bovard had been in the police force for 18 years and had been twice stationed at Bathurst. He went from Bathurst to Forbes seven or eight months ago.
He claimed to be well connected and said he was a cousin by marriage to Sir George Reid, and he also claimed relationship with Mr. McCourt, an ex-Speaker in New South Wales Parliament, and Superintendent Sutherland, of the Police Department.
Dr. Edward McDonnell declared that the bullet wound through Bovard’s head was apparently self inflicted.
Inspector Whitfield stated that Bovard was under the influence of liquor on the day of the occurrence. He came into witness’ office and said : ” I am an honest man and I never took that pound. ” Bovard shook hands and said he was leaving Forbes. Bovard had seemed to take his dismissal very much to heart and resorted to drink.
Aubrey S. Wickham, C.P.S., described Bovard’ s good-bye visit. Bovard asked him to tell the P.M. that he was not guilty, and added that Fuller would walk over his blood. Bovard then went outside and the fatal shot rang out immediately.
Sergeant Garstang said that early on the Friday afternoon Bovard asked him what time Fuller came on duty. Witness replied, ” Six o’clock, ” and Bovard said, ” Ah, that will do me. ” Half an hour afterwards Bovard was dead. Witness searched the body and found a three penny bit and a penny piece and some odds and ends. Bovard had no property except a tin trunk and some clothes.
Constable Fuller said the service revolver produced was his. He left it in his bed at the Police Barracks on Friday morning. Bovard had no right to be in possession of it. He had not seen Bovard during the few days prior to his death.
John William Seyers stated that when Bovard said good-bye to him he was crying and witness thought he was going to the war. Bovard said; ” Oh, my God, they swore lies against me here. ” Three minutes afterwards he heard a shot.
A coronial inquiry was hold at Forbes concerning the death of ex-Constable Claud Alexander Bovard (42), who killed himself with a revolver on Friday last.
Bovard had been convicted of having robbed a prisoner of £1, and was dismissed from the force, but always strongly maintained his innocence.
He conceived a great dislike for Constable Fuller, who gave evidence against him, and declared to the Clerk of Petty Sessions ( Mr. Wickham, just before he shot himself, that Fuller would walk over his blood. He then shot himself on the Court House verandah with Fuller’s revolver.
Bovard had been in the police force 15 years, and had been stationed at Dubbo. He claimed to be well connected, and he was a cousin by marriage to Sir George Reid, and he also claimed relationship with Mr. McCourt, an ex-Speaker in the N.S.W. Parliament, and Superintendent Sutherland, of the Police Department.
Forbes Advocate Tuesday 30 September 1919 page 2 of 4
IN MEMORIAM.
BOVARD: In memory of my beloved
son Claude Bovard, who lost his life at Forbes, 1st October 1915.
Inserted by his mother, brothers, and sisters.
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/article/100316123
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Northern Star ( Lismore ) Monday 28 January 1924 page 4 of 8
LATE MRS. BOVARD
The death of Mrs. L. Bovard, of ” Lome House,” Glebe Point, which took place recently, removed another link with the early days of the Berrima and the Richmond River districts. Mrs. Bovard spent most of her life in those districts, where she and her late husband were held in high esteem by a large circle of friends.
Their long residence upon the Richmond River was spent at Goonellabah, upon the farm now owned by Mr. J. James, and afterwards in Lismore, where they reared a large family, the members of which were worthy of their revered parents.
One son, Mr. Cecil Bovard, served his time on the “Northern Star,” and afterwards entered the service of the Postmaster-General in Sydney, where his brother Percy held a high position. The sad death of another son, Senior-Constable Claude Bovard at Dubbo, was followed by the deaths from pneumonia and influenza, of the two sons in the Postal Department, within a space of three or four years. From this crushing blow Mrs. Bovard never recovered, and it has brought about her early death.
After the loss of her husband Mrs. Bovard removed with her family to Sydney.
The surviving members are one son, Sergeant Hedley Bovard, of the Maryborough (Qld.), police force, and three married daughters.
News ( Adelaide, S.A. ) Friday 30 December 1927 page 11 of 14
TRIANGLE OF DEATH
Police Figure in Murders
SHOT THROUGH WINDOW
When Constable Ford murdered Mrs. Laws and then shot himself at Leichhardt, Sydney, he completed a tragic triangle of death.
He was the third constable who has served at Grenfell, to die by violence.
Constables Claud Bovard and George J. Duncan were the other two.
More than ten years ago Ford and Bovard served together at Grenfell, and Duncan was stationed there soon after they left.
Bovard committed suicide by blowing out his brains three days after he left the police force.
Duncan was murdered by two men, both of whom were later hanged.
Six lives, which have ended unnaturally, were thus linked together.
The three were physically fine men. Constable Duncan was transferred to Tottenham when trouble was brewing in the district. Falling foul of two men, he was murdered one night in his office. The police station was a hut with two rooms. Duncan was sitting at his desk with his back to the window, typing. The blind was up, but the window was closed. Creeping to the window, the two men could see Duncan clearly in the flood of light from an oil lamp. They drew their revolvers and from the darkness fired two shots through the glass into Duncan’s back, killing him instantly. Later they were arrested, convicted, and hanged in Bathurst Gaol.
In New South Wales, since January 25, 12 murders have been committed, which is twice the number that have taken place in Victoria over the same period. With three exceptions, all have taken place in Sydney, and three have been committed in Ashfield.
Four murders have not yet been solved and jealousy and domestic unhappiness have been the cause in most of the remaining cases.
When Constable FordmurderedMrs. Laws and then shot himself at Leichhardt recently, he completed a tragic triangle of death. He was the third constable who has served at Grenfell to die by violence.
Constables Claude Bovard and George J. Duncan were the other two. Over ten years agoFord and Bovard served together at Grenfell, and Duncan was stationed there soon after they left.
Northern Star ( Lismore ) Thursday 26 January 1928 page 12 of 12
DEATH OF SERGEANT BOVARD
Mr. N. C. Hewitt writes:— Old residents of Lismore will regret to learn of the death of Sergeant Hedley Bovard, of the Queensland Police Force, who was for over twenty years a resident of Lismore. His death took place at the Mater Misericordiae private hospital, South Brisbane, on January 14th at the early age of 46 years.
The late Senior Sergeant Bovard was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bovard, for many years resident in Ewing Square, Lismore.
Coming to the district when quite a small boy the family for some years were engaged in farming at Goonellabah on the farm now owned by Mr. Alf. James. This was in the latter “eighties.” He was educated at the Goonellabah public school. When the family removed to Lismore, if I mistake not, he entered the employ either of Mr. W. D. Lamotte or of Mr. C. Balzer, who had livery stables in Molesworth-street near the Freemasons’ Hotel.
In 1905 he joined the Queensland police and was for some years stationed in North Queensland in different centres and in difficult situations, afterwards being in charge at Bundaberg and Maryborough. Later he was acting-inspector at Chillagoe, but the climate forced him to apply for a change to the south. Then he was placed in charge at South Brisbane, Hamilton and various other Brisbane stations. His men under him held him in the highest regard.
As one remarked to the writer “If Bo. could not do you a good turn he would never do you a bad one.”
Quite recently Sergeant Bovard developed heart trouble and at the end of September he had to go into hospital. His two sisters, Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Pitt, went up from Sydney and he appeared to make a wonderful recovery. He decided to retire on a pension well earned for service in the climatically unfavourable North.
Early this year the heart trouble returned with dramatic suddenness and his sisters, including Miss Ethel Bovard, were summoned from Sydney when alarming symptoms manifested themselves. His condition rapidly became worse and he passed away peacefully as stated.
His death came as a shock to his comrades as well as to his sisters. The remains were taken to Sydney for interment beside those of his mother and three brothers and were accorded a State servant’s funeral, attended by all the available members of the force.
Sergeant Bovard‘s death is a particularly sad one. By his passing the last surviving male member of the Bovard family passes away without leaving a descendant to carry on a name that was honoured in Lismore a quarter of century ago.
Fifteen years ago the family included four strapping sons – young men of fine physique of whose lives one could have taken a lease.
The first break came when Senior Constable Claude Bovard of Wellington Police Force died under pathetic circumstances. Then during the pandemicCecil (who served his apprenticeship with the Northern Star) of the G.P.O. staff died from influenza, shortly to be followed by his elder brother Percy of the same department, from pneumonia.
Percy was one of the first, if not actually the first telephonist in Lismore.
The shock of losing her three sons was too much for the grief-stricken mother who shortly afterwards was called to her rest. Now the sole surviving son in the prime of life has been carried to that bourne whence no traveller returns.
The deceased gentleman was a devout member of the Church of England. To the bereaved sisters the sympathy of all who remember the family will go out.
This is the third death within six months of sergeants of police in Queensland who hailed from the Richmond River — Sergt. King, Sergt. D’Arcy McDonough and Sergt. Bovard — and it can be written of each that he was a credit to the sons of the Richmond River district who in peace or war have won new fame and glory.
Wellington Times ( NSW ) Thursday 14 January 1904 page 3 of 8
Alleged Murder.
ACCUSED COMMITTED FOR TRIAL.
The Coroner (Mr. R. Porter) held an inquest at the Court House on Monday touching the death of one (supposed) Edward Carson, who died at the Wellington Hospital on Saturday night from injuries received, it was alleged, in a disturbance at Winters’ Hotel at about 6.30 p.m. on Saturday.
The following jury was empanelled — Messrs. R. Read (foreman), R. Tait, F. Kennard, J. Walker, J. W. Marshall, L. N. Hyeronimus, J. T. Mallon, J. B. Wynne, W. J. Robinson, F. W. Everett, and A. Deveson.
Sergeant Steele conducted the case on behalf of the police.
After the jury had viewed the body, the following evidence was adduced : —
Constable Claude Bovard, sworn, deposed: In consequence of a message which came to the police station on Saturday evening about 6.30 went to Tattersalls Hotel kept by J. Winters ; made some inquiries from Mr. and Mrs. Winters and then went into a yard at the rear of the hotel ; saw William Henry Davis, now present in custody, behind a water tank in the yard ; said to him ” I want you to come with me ” ; he replied ” All right, Constable ” ; Davis and I proceeded along to the intersection of Lee and Gisborne-streets ; Davis said, ” What are you arresting me for ” ; replied ” Am arresting you on suspicion of inflicting grevious bodily harm on a man whose name is unknown to me ” ; he asked, ” Is the man dead ” ; replied ” No, not yet ” ; he said, ” You know you b—– c—– but you won’t tell me. ” Coaxed Davis along a bit further down the street, and he became very violent and resisted ; obtained assistance and brought him to the look up ; then returned with Constable Byrne to Winters’ Hotel there saw the deceased, subject of this inquiry, who was lying on a couch in the parlor of the hotel ; viewed the body today at the hospital with the jury ; deceased was lying on his back ; he was unconscious and breathing very heavily ; procured a conveyance and took him to the hospital ; went back and saw deceased lying dead about 1 o’clock on Sunday morning ; there were no marks and no blood about the body ; produce papers ( A.W.U. ticket and shed references ) – handed to me by Sergeant Steele and was informed that they were found on the body of deceased ; also produce a watch and one gold ring handed to me by Sergeant Steele ; the nine pence in cash and other small articles were handed to me by the Matron at the hospital ; was informed they were found on deceased ; saw Davis now before the Court in the lock-up about 7 o’clock last night in the presence of Constables Byrne and O’Reilly ; asked him his name ; he replied Henry Davis ; said ” I now charge you with feloniously and maliciously slaying and murdering one Edward Carson, at Wellington on the 9th January, 1904 ” ; then said ” You are not compelled to make any reply to the charge, but whatever you may say will be taken down in writing and used either for or against you at your trial ” ; in reply to the charge he said, ” Is that the man I hit at Winters’ Hotel ” ; I said ” Yes “; he asked ” Is there anything wrong with him ” ; I replied ” Yes, he is dead ” ; he replied ” I only hit him one blow with my fist and he fell into the gutter ” ; Constable Byrne then said ” Was he a stranger to you ” ; he replied ” Yes, I have never seen him before.”
John Henry Luke, sworn, deposed: Am 18 years of age and live with my parents at Wellington ; left home at 6 o’clock on Saturday evening and went to Winters’ Hotel ; saw William Henry Davis, now in custody, there ; there was a row ; saw a man leaning against a post ; now know him as Edward Carson ; post is the one used for hanging horses up to at the edge of the footpath ; Davis struck the man under the jaw ; the man fell backwards on the kerb stone ; the back of the man’s head struck the kerb stone ; was standing about a yard and a half away ; was leaning on the other end of the rail ; the man lay there ; some men picked him up and put him on the seat under the verandah ; never heard the man say anything to Davis ; he was not quarrelling with Davis or anyone else ; he was standing quietly leaning against the post ; he made no attempt to defend himself ; the blow was struck suddenly with the shut fist without any warning ; saw the body of deceased this morning at the hospital ; identify the body as that of the man Davis struck.
To the jury : Davis was standing by the post ; there was no one with Davis, and there was no altercation of any kind.
To Davis : Did not see a big man between you and deceased ; saw a few men standing around you ; heard no conversation, but some words were passed between you and deceased which I did not hear ; you were under the influence of drink.
To the jury ; Deceased was quiet in bis demeanor ; Davis seemed excited ; heard Davis speak to Carson, but did not hear Carson speak.
George Buckley, sworn, deposed : Am a laborer at present residing at Wellington ; was at Winters’ hotel on Saturday evening last about 6 o’clock ; saw William Henry Davis now before the court ; saw another man named Carson, whose body I saw at the hospital yesterday afternoon ; there was a row on with Davis and another man ; do not know the other man ; deceased was standing against the post to which horses are tied ; deceased was not saying a word to anyone ; was about five yards from deceased ; saw Davis strike deceased with his right fist about the jaw ; deceased fell back from the post, the back of his head striking the kerb stone ; two other men and myself picked deceased up and placed him on a seat on the verandah ; deceased was unconscious ; Mr. Winters wet deceased’s lips with rum ; about half an hour afterwards deceased was carried inside and laid on a stretcher ; deceased never spoke; never saw deceased before ; myself and another man then informed the police ; in the meantime Davis was brought to the police station.
To Davis : When I picked up deceased he was not bleeding ; saw you strike deceased ; deceased did not give you any cause ; was not there in the morning ; went to Winters’ about 5 o’clock; did not see any thing else occur ; saw you and another man having a row.
George Curwan Rickes, sworn, deposed : Am a laborer residing at Wellington ; was standing at Cox’s corner opposite Winters’ Hotel about 7 o’clock ; the man rowing with Davis was a little dark man ; saw deceased standing against a post ; he was struck ; recognise Davis as the man who dealt the blow ; saw accused fall ; saw deceased had a nasty fall and went across ; saw Davis start to walk up the street ; had a clear view of deceased, but there were other men standing between me and Davis.
To a juryman : Deceased was standing quietly at the post.
James Wright Winters, hotel keeper, sworn, deposed : Saw a dead body at the hospital ; saw the deceased at my hotel on Saturday ; have since heard his name was Carson ; Davis was also there ; was at the tea table at about 6 p.m. or a little after, when I heard there was a wrangling on in front ; came through the bar and out into the front of the place ; saw two or three men carrying the deceased from the horse rail onto the seat on the verandah ; had a look at him and tried to rouse him up ; poured some water on his forehead and on his wrist ; moistened his lips with brandy ; some time after that deceased was carried into a little sitting-room and put on a couch ; went in and saw deceased ; he did not seem to be any better than when he was on the verandah : then sent for the doctor : before the doctor arrived the police came down and removed him to the hospital ; saw Davis when I came out of the bar ; he went away from the place and came back a little while after ; saw deceased about half an hour before he was carried in ; he was then sober, but had two or three small brandy gaffs ; he appeared in perfect health ; had no conversation after with Davis ; sent a messenger to the police before this had happened, in consequence of a disturbance with Davis and a man called Darkin.
To the jury : Davis wanted to quarrel with Carson ; deceased wanted to fight with Davis in the morning for money ; Davis was the cause of the quarrel ; Davis was walking through the place bumping up against everybody, and bumped against Carson and then wanted to fight ; Carson was not the aggressor in any way ; did not hear Carson call Davis any bad names ; Carson was at my hotel off and on through the day and was very quiet.
Adjourned till 2.10 p.m.
Christopher Hewitt Siggons, sworn, deposed : Have seen the dead body of Edward Carson, the subject of this inquiry ; deceased had been staying at my place ; he came there on Thursday morning between 9 and 10 o’clock ; he had a bicycle, and engaged a room ; saw him last about 5.30 on Saturday afternoon ; he was still staying at my place ; he left my place and went in the direction of Winters’ Hotel ; he was quite sober and apparently in good health ; never saw him before Thursday morning ; heard some one call him Ted ; did not know his name ; he appeared to be 25 years of age ; said he had come from Dubbo ; paid his way as he went along ; saw some silver with him ; saw no quantity of money with him.
To the jury : Deceased was as quiet a young fellow as had ever stayed at my place ; he might have been away from my place during the day.
Charles Hunter Graham, sworn, deposed : Am a legally qualified medical practitioner, residing at Wellington ; received a call on Saturday night last between 9 and 10 o’clock; saw a patient named Edward Carson ; examined him, and found him suffering from concussion of the brain ; examined him for any external wounds or injuries, but found none ; he died about 2.20 the same night ; he remained unconscious all the time he was in the hospital ; on the following day made a post mortem examination with the assistance of Dr. Linton ; the body was that of a man about 5ft 11in in height, well nourished ; there were no external signs of violence sufficient to account for death ; there was one small contused wound on the centre of the back, and a bruise on the back of the head ; after opening the body found all the organs normally healthy with the exception of the right lung, it having a slight form of pleurisy; nothing to account for death ; on examination of the head there were considerable swelling and concentration of blood in the tissues on the right side on the back of the head ; on removing the skull, on the interior of the skull on the brain on the right side there was a considerable amount of recent blood clot ; on further examination there was a small v shaped fracture at the thinnest part of the skull, about ¾in above the right ear ; this caused death ; deceased must have fallen with very great violence ; from a blow from a man’s fist, falling back on the kerbing would be sufficient to cause the fracture ; he must have fallen on the right side.
To the jury : do not think the fracture of the skull could be made by a blow from a man’s fist; there were no marks on the face; it would be quite possible to render a man unconscious from a blow.
Joseph Phillip Ward, sworn, deposed : Am 16 years of age and reside with my parents at Wellington ; was at Winters’ Hotel on Saturday night last between 6 and 7 ; saw William Edward Davis there on the footpath and several other people ; saw Davis walk over and hit Carson with his fist ; Carson fell with the back of his head on the kerbstone ; he was picked up and and carried in.
Ernest Alfred Fulton, sworn, deposed : Am a storekeeper residing in Wellington ; have seen the dead body of deceased, subject of this inquiry ; previous to that saw him alive on Wednesday and Thursday morning ; was talking to him on Thursday morning ; knew him at Kiama ; he was working there for a butcher ; am not sure whether his name is Carson or Callaghan ; could almost swear knew the man as Callaghan ; told me he had been working out back on a station, and came from Dubbo ; deceased was looking for work.
William Henry Davis declined to give evidence. VERDICT.
The jury returned the following verdict after a retirement of 40 minutes :- We find that the said Edward Carson died from concussion of the brain caused by a fall from a blow delivered by William Henry Davis on the 9th January, 1904, at Winters’ Hotel, Lee-street, Wellington. We further find the said William Henry Davis guilty of murder.
The accused, William Henry Davis, was committed to stand his trial at the Circuit Court to be holden at Dubbo on the 13th April, 1904.
Stationed: Darlinghurst District ( No. 3 Division )
Suicide – firearm
Died: 24 December 1906
27 old
Funeral: ?
Buried: ?
POLICE CONSTABLE’S SUICIDE.
Peter Hynes, a young constable attached to the Darlinghurst district, has committed suicide. He said goodby to his landlady, and added ” You are the best friend I ever had. ” She asked him where he was going. Hynes replied, ” To eternity, ” and walked off. In a few minutes those in the house were startled by revolver shots, and Hynes was found in the yard with a bullet wound in his head. He died in a few hours.
The Register ( Adelaide ) Tuesday 25 December 1906 page 7 of 12
At the time of his death the constable was stationed at Darlinghurst.
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CASUALTIES.
A POLICEMAN SHOT.
Constable Peter Hynes, connected with the Darlinghurst Station, was found in the back yard of his residence, Bourke-street, at an early hour this morning with a bullet wound in his head. He was taken to St. Vincent’s Hospital and admitted in a very serious condition. Peters, it was stated, had been out all the evening and returned home about midnight. It was shortly afterwards that he was found in the yard. For the past few days he had been unwell, and was away from duty, but having recovered, he was to have ” reported on ” this morning.
The Sydney Morning Herald Monday 24 December 1906page 6 of 10
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SUICIDE OF CONSTABLE HYNES.
EVIDENCE AT THE INQUEST.
A magisterial inquiry was held this afternoon into the circumstances connected with the death of Peter Hynes, a constable lately attached to No. 3 Station, which took place at St. Vincent’s Hospital on Monday last from bullet wounds in the head, self inflicted, in the yard of his lodgings, Bourke-street, Darlinghurst, a few hours before.
John Healy, a barman, stated that he had occupied the same room as Hynes. About 11.45 on Sunday night last Hynes came home, and, going over to witness, who was in bed, said, ‘Goodbye, Jack ; you are the best friend I ever had, ” and kissed him on the forehead. Hynes then left the room, and went through the dining-room into the yard. He called out, ” Good-bye, missus, ” and almost immediately, two shots were heard. Healy rushed out to the back and saw Hynes lying in the yard with blood issuing from a wound in the head, and unconscious, a police revolver being a few feet away. Hynes was of a jovial disposition, and although his conduct was peculiar, witness could not believe that he intended taking his life. Healy did not know what caused him to commit the act.
Bridget Coughlan, the keeper of the house in which Hynes resided, stated that he had confided to her that he had an idea he would be mixed up in a divorce case. This preyed upon his mind, and he took too much drink. When he returned home on Sunday nighty she gave him a message that he would have to report himself for duty at once. He had been drinking. He was upset at receiving the message, and when asked if he had any trouble, or been dismissed, replied, ” It is all right, I am going to eternity. ” He then went upstairs, and afterwards witness heard him call out, ” Good bye, missus, ” the words being quickly followed by two revolver shots.
A finding of suicide was recorded.
Evening News ( Sydney ) Friday 28 December 1906 page 5 of 8
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POLICE CONSTABLE KILLS HIMSELF.
The inquest was held by the City Coroner concerning the death of Peter Hynes, 27, a constable of police. Hynes was found in the yard of his residence, Bourke-street, Surry Hills, early on Monday morning, with a bullet wound in the head, and died in St. Vincent’s Hospital the same day.
The evidence of John Healy showed that Hynes was in good health, and attended St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday morning, last. That night he went into Healy’s room, and said, ” Good-bye, Jack, you’re the best friend I ever had, ” and just afterwards made some reverential sign to a crucifix on the wall. Hynes went out, and 30 seconds later he called out, ” Good-bye, missus. ” Then two revolver shots were heard, and on going out witness found Hyne’s lying in the yard with the revolver near by.
Bridget Coghlan said that Hynes had been a boarder at her place for three years. He had told her he was afraid of being, mixed up in a divorce matter. On the night of his death a message came from No. 3 station for Hynes to report himself there, as he had been on sick leave, and was supposed to go back to duty that night. Witness delivered this message to Hynes, who exclaimed, ” It’s all right, I’m going to eternity. ”
A finding of suicide was recorded.
Sunday Times ( Sydney ) Sunday 30 December 1906 page 12 of 20
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FORD
| 31/07/2014
FORD
New South Wales Police Force
Sub-Inspector
Attempt Suicide – firearm
ACCIDENTS AND FATALITIES
[BY TELEGRAPH.]
Sudden Death of a Sub-Inspector’s Wife.
Attempted Suicide of the Husband.
Sydney, Monday.
Barrier Miner ( Broken Hill ) Monday 20 July 1896 page 2 of 4
A telegram from Orange reports that at the police barracks there Mrs. Ford, wife of Sub-Inspector Ford, who was suffering from an affection of the heart, was suddenly seized with a fit. Doctor Crase was called in and found that the patient had become nearly exhausted by violent spasms. He went for some chloroform to be administered to her, but on his return, after only a few seconds absence, he found that Mrs. Ford had died from syncope in the interim. Inspector Ford had been sent for and arrived a few minutes before his wife’s death. He was distracted with grief and fired three shots from his revolver in an attempt to take his own life. One shot struck him in the jaw but inflicted no serious injury ; the others missed. The inspector, however, lies seriously ill from grief and shock.
James Smith was a brother of Mr. G. Smith of Oak Farm, Rosemonte, near Goulburn, NSW, and his father, who died a few years ago, was a well-known gardener of that place.
Father’s name: George
Mother’s name: Isabella
The Sydney Morning Herald ( NSW ) Friday 1 January 1897 page 5 of 8
SUICIDE BY A SUB-INSPECTOR OF POLICE.
NARRABRI, Thursday.
This morning Sub-inspector James Smith, the officer in charge of the Narrabri police district, was found dead. A report of a shot was heard and deceased’s son, who rushed into the room, found his father lying on the bed with a revolver on his breast. From appearances that weapon had exploded in the mouth and the bullet had passed into the brain. During the past fortnight Mr. Smith had been indisposed, and it is stated that when unwell he always became very despondent and developed symptoms of melancholia. Only one chamber of the revolver was discharged, and death was apparently instantaneous. Deceased was 50 years of age. He joined the police force 27 years ago, and, beginning as a constable, worked his way up to his present rank. During the past six years he has had charge of the Narrabri police district. Deceased leaves a widow and seven children. An inquest was opened at the courthouse this morning and adjourned till Monday.
Later particulars of the death of Sub-inspector Smith show that the deceased left three letters, one addressed to his wife, the second to Mr Kenyon, P. M., ( Police Magistrate ) and the third to Mr A. R. Stafford, of Barry and Stafford. In one letter he stated that he felt his mind was becoming unhinged and preferred death to living the remainder of his life in an asylum. The deceased had arranged all his affairs, leaving everything provided for. The Masons will accord the deceased a Masonic funeral, which takes place tomorrow morning. The family are left provided for.
Singleton Argus ( NSW ) Saturday 2 January 1897 page 2 of 6
The Late Sub-Inspector Smith.
Many old residents of Singleton will regret to hear of the death of Police Sub-Inspector James Smith at Narrabri, an account of whose tragic end is published in another column. Sub-Inspector Smith joined the police force about 1868, and after doing duty at Maitland for about two years he was transferred to Singleton, where he remained for some time under Inspector Thorpe, and afterwards he was stationed at Wollombi with the rank of senior-constable.
Singleton Argus ( NSW ) Saturday 2 January 1897 page 6 of 6
SUICIDE OF A SUB-INSPECTOR.
Sub-Inspector James Smith who has had charge of the division at Narrabri aged 50 years, committed suicide on Thursday. He got up as usual, and went round the barracks, and at 8 o’clock went back to his bedroom. A few minutes later Senior-Sergeant Thomas Clarke, hearing a report of firearms rushed into the bedroom, and found the sub-inspector stretched on his bed with a bullet wound in his head. Death was instantaneous. The revolver was quite hot when the sergeant took it from the dead man’s hand. The only cause that ran be assigned for the terrible deed is that the sub-inspector had been ailing for the last three weeks, and his wife has also been ill for some time, and is at the present moment in a very bad condition.
Great surprise was expressed locally at the news, and also regret. Sub-Inspector Smith was well liked both in his official and private capacity. He was a member of the Masonic order, and also the M.U. ( Manchester Unity ) Order of Oddfellows. The deceased inspector joined the mounted police on January 15, 1868. On leaving the depot in Sydney he was sent to the north-western district, being first stationed at Maitland. From that place he was transferred to Muswellbrook as sergeant, and was promoted to senior-sergeant in April, 1883. In 1891 Mr Smith attained the rank he held at the time of his death, and was appointed to the Narrabri sub-district.
The Maitland Weekly Mercury ( NSW ) Saturday 2 January 1897 page 3 of 16
Suicide of Sub-Inspector Smith at Narrabri.
Narrabri, Thursday
Great excitement prevailed in town this morning when a report became current that police Sub-Inspector James Smith had committed suicide at his residence between 8 and 9 o’clock by shooting himself through the head with a revolver, death being instantaneous. The report was immediately confirmed, and the particulars furnished go to show that the Sub-Inspector had been suffering from some slight illness for the past week, and had been subject to fits of melancholia for some time previous, but the commission of such a rash act was never dreamed of by his friends. The greatest sympathy is felt for his wife and family. An inquiry will be held during the day. Alater telegram states that Mr. Smith got up as usual, and went round the barracks. At 8 0’clock he went back to his bedroom, and a few minutes later Senior-Sergeant Clarke, hearing the report of firearms, rushed into the bedroom and found the Sub-Inspector stretched on his bed with a bullet wound in the head. Death had been instantaneous, and tbe revolver was quite hot when the Sergeant took it from the dead man’s hand. The only cause assigned for the terrible deed is that the Sub- Inspector has been ailing for the last three weeks, and his wife had also been ill for some, and at the present moment is in a very bad condition. Great surprise is expressed in town at the news, also regret. Mr. Smith was well-liked both in his official and private capacity. He was a member of the Masonic Order, and also of the Manchester Unity Order of Oddfellows. The late Mr. James Smith, or ” Long Smith ” as he was generally called by other members of the force to distinguish him from another officer of the same name, was well-known in the Maitland district, where the news of his death will create some excitement. Mr. Smith joined the police force about the year 1868, so that he had served 28 years and would in the natural course of events have retired in a couple of years’ time. In the 70’s he was stationed at Singleton under Inspector Thorpe, who has since retired, and later with the rank of senior-constable he was in charge at Wollombi. He was also stationed at several other places, and for a number of years prior to 1896 be was a senior-sergeant at Muswellbrook, in which year he was superseded by Senior-sergeant Cowan, now of East Maitland. Mr. Smith then went to Narrabri, with the rank of sub-inspector in charge of the sub-district of Narrabri, which is a most important one, including as it does Moree. During the miners’ strike at Greta, Mr. Smith was one of the officers engaged there. He was 50 years of age, and, as stated in our telegram, leaves a wife and family. Mr. Smith was a fine soldierly man in appearance, and was a noted strict disciplinarian.
Peter and Paul (right) Stefaniw. Since our program, sadly one of the twins, Paul Stefaniw, the Victorian policeman has died. He was 49. His twin brother, Peter, also a policeman, says that between them, the twins have given nearly 60 years of police service. As well as paying tribute to his brother, Peter has asked us to mention Beyond Blue which helps people struggling with depression. For memories of Paul click through to this page. For other support services: Lifeline http://www.lifeline.org.au/ 131 114 Mensline http://www.mensline.org.au/ 1300 789 978 Kids Helpline http://www.kidshelp.com.au/ 1800 551 800 http://www.sbs.com.au/insight/episode/webextra/606/Two-of-a-Kind
Paul had been going through a marriage breakdown leading up to his death and was on sick leave.
He spent time, leading up to his death, visiting various friends and family ( which was his way of saying his goodbye’s ) but no one was aware of the mental anguish that Paul was going through.
He spent time putting his ‘affairs’ into order before, eventually, going to a beach where he left three notes, to various people, and then shot himself.
May you forever Rest In Peace mate.
Cal
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STEFANIW. – The Funeral Service for the late Leading Senior Constable Paul Taras Stefaniw will be held at the Victoria Police Academy, Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (Dec. 10, 2012) at 10.00 a. m. followed by a Burial at Fawkner Memorial Park, 1187 Sydney Rd, Fawkner at 1.30 p. m. Vigil Prayers will be recited at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 91 Buckley St, Essendon on SUNDAY (Dec. 9) at 6.00 p. m.
– See more at: http://tributes.heraldsun.com.au/archivenotice/3023621/view?random=1406736702268#sthash.JN8EWTYC.dpuf
STEFANIW. – The Funeral Service for the late Leading Senior Constable Paul Taras Stefaniw will be held at the Victoria Police Academy, Viewmount Rd, Glen Waverley on MONDAY (Dec. 10, 2012) at 10.00 a. m. followed by a Burial at Fawkner Memorial Park, 1187 Sydney Rd, Fawkner at 1.30 p. m. Vigil Prayers will be recited at the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 91 Buckley St, Essendon on SUNDAY (Dec. 9) at 6.00 p. m.
My deepest condolences to the Stefaniw family… I met Peter and Paul at interstate Police basketball championships back in the 80’s… Both very lovely blokes… Very sad to hear this news… Felicity Harley
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Deepest sympathy for your sad loss. I went to kindergarten and primary school with Paul & Peter. His birthday was the first boys party Cheryl and I had been invited to. My thoughts are with Peter and his family. Carol
~
Carol Swayn,
Queensland
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
I am very sorry to here this on SBS Twins. Condolances to all who new Paul
~
Roby Gillman
Wednesday, 25 December 2013
I’m allways sad my dealest friend Paul isn’t here!Marietta
~
Marietta Steiger,
Luzern
Wednesday, 30 October 2013
Miss you Paul, you were a wonderful person, I think of you often and will always remember your greeting to me in the office “Woof”, and our discussions about your dogs and cats.
~
Dilys Clarke,
Melbourne, Victoria
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Stef, still thinking of you mate and you are truly missed. I still cant believe you have left us!! A true friend and a top fella. Dont forget “its ok”.
~
a. badaracchi,
melbourne, Victoria
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
Not a day goes past that I don’t think about you, missing you always x
~
Rhiannon Dipple,
Melbourne, Victoria
Monday, 7 January 2013
Paul, Since hearing the news of your passing, it has been very difficult, both with a heavy heart and with many tears shed, to write what I feel.
You have given me many fond memories in my life, from our many wonderful times during our years in Plast, as well as the times you visited Adelaide to celebrate birthdays or just for a visit. I will cherish these memories forever.
Today, our Christmas Day, I wanted you to know that you are sadly missed and that my thoughts and prayers and heart are with you, Peter, Roxy and your family.
Vichnaya Pamyat
~
Sonia Borysiuk,
Adelaide, South Australia
Monday, 24 December 2012
Thinking of the Stefaniw family during this difficult time especially on the eve of christmas. Its funny I never met Paul but felt like I knew him through hearing lovely positive stories about him from my mum and our friend who attended the same Church and through an ex partner who is also VicPol. I felt deeply saddened as a human being,a fellow ukrainian and an ex “plastunka” on hearing of his passing. Clearly a beautiful soul as evidenced by the tributes on this site and all that knew him. Gone too soon though Paul will live on in many hearts. Rest in Peace Paul. Love, Solace and Strength to your twin brother Peter, your beautiful children and all the Stefaniw family.
Le vent souffle
l’amour s’ecoule
le temps s’arréte
et avec toi, je reste
~
St Tre,
Ceduna, South Australia
Friday, 21 December 2012
Rest in Peace Paul! Mary
~
Mary Kohl,
New South Wales
Thursday, 20 December 2012
To Peter, my heart has been so sad since hearing of the death of lovely Paul. Such fond memories of good times with the two of you and in particular Pauls wonderful sense of humor and great smile that lit up the room. My heart hurts for you Peter and for Pauls family. You are in my thoughts at this difficult time. Beth (Possum) xx
~
Beth Thompson,
Melbourne, Victoria
Monday, 17 December 2012
Stef, thanks for all the laughs and the good times we had mate. You always made me happy with your police war stories and funny one liners!! I will never forget you and hope you are at peace now. Cheers my big friend with the big heart! Bye mate, AB.
~
A. Badaracchi,
Melb, Victoria
Saturday, 15 December 2012
Darling Paul,come back we miss you too much,-Detty x
Thursday, 13 December 2012
To my dearest friends who have entered condolences in this book. My sincere thanks to you all for your kind words in the passing of my dearest(twin) brother, Paul. I was born, lived and died with him. Your thoughts and prayers for him and my families have made grieving just that little easier. I hope Paul, you have now found peace and can rest your troubled heart. I know you are around me because i can feel you.
Dont worry, “its OK”
love, “the other half”
~
Peter STEFANIW,
Cheltenham, Vic
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
I’m so sorry I’ve just found out of the sad passing of Paul. My deepest sympathies to Maryanne, Leisa, Nicholas, Peter & families. I have been massaging Paul for over 13 years. His beaming smile & laugh will never be forgotten. Thank you for your friendship. Patrick Herft – pH MASSAGE
To our favourite Uki twins Pavlo and Petro.
You made out Plast days memorable.
Syl’no Krasno Oberezhno Bystro
We will only ever remember those beaming smiles.
Beautiful souls the pair of you.
Proud Ukrainians.
We will never forget you Pavle and always here for you Petre x
It’s a twin thing … Liana and Katya Slipetsky
I will miss when our families got together and went to the zoo or drive in often. The way you could just stand there and hold up a finger in front and you would make me laugh for hours. So many good memories that will never be forgotten RIP xx
~
Michelle Ewart,
Melbourne, Victoria
Monday, 10 December 2012
I will miss you calling me “Fraulein” and calling out “Auf Wiedersehen” when you left the office. Your were a good and kind man and police officer.I am thankful to have known and worked with you. Auf Wiedersehen.
~
Susanna,
Victoria
Monday, 10 December 2012
Peter, I met Paul more than 25 years ago and knew him to be a very kind and truely a gentleman. I was very sadened to hear of his passing. My thoughts are with your families at this time, my deepest sympathy
~
Diane Hall,
Sandringham, Victoria
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Stefaniw, PaulThe fond childhood memories of dear cousin Paul shall not pass away.
2 Corinthians 5:1- “…For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens…”
Our deepest condolences and prayers for Peter, Roxolana and their families. With love – cousin Nadia & Otto, Joelle & Ariel.
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Paul,
For the time we have known each other has been great! From all the stories that Mama and Tato have told me to all the funny jokes you shared when you came to visit us in Canberra. It will never be forgotten, you have a heart of gold.
You will always live in our hearts and prayers. My dearest sympathy to Peter, Roxanne, Leisa, Nicholas and Maryanne. May you rest in peace.
Vichnaya Pamyt
~
Kristina Lutak,
Auckland
Saturday, 8 December 2012
Dear Peter, We were very shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death of your twin Paul and also of hearing of the passing of your darling mother, who was part of our family for many years. We lost contact when we moved away, but often think of you all with fond memories, Love from Julie, John, Anthony, Cameron and Shannon Wallace
Saturday, 8 December 2012
Paul. A lovely human being. Gone too soon. My thoughts are with your twin brother Peter and your family. Police Life certainly loved the Stefaniw twins. Marilyn Miller
Saturday, 8 December 2012
Such a rare person – such a short life.
Sorry that we could not be there for you – you have always been there for us. Will miss you a lot. Rest in peace. Vichnaya pamyat’.
Taras and Maryana
My dear cousin Paul, your passing is a loss that we will feel eternally. You are nothing short of a gem of a man, with a heart of gold. You are now our diamond in the sky. Our deepest sympathy to Pete,Roxy,Lesia,Nicholas & Maryanne. I will be forever proud of my caring cousin Paul. With love from Andre, Lane, Maggie & Grace Kozaczynsky XX
My Dearest Godson Paul, may you rest in peace. Dear Roxolana, Peter and the whole Stefaniw family I offer my deepest sympathy. Love Teta Marcella
~
Marcella Kozaczynsky
Friday, 7 December 2012
Paul, I feel so privileged to call you my cousin. Forever a gentleman. Rest in Peace. Love Tania
~
Tania Kozaczynsky-Edwards
Friday, 7 December 2012
I always looked forward to seeing your smiling face at Police functions. I’ll miss ya mate!
Julie Leder
Victoria Police Band
~
Julie Leder
Friday, 7 December 2012
Stef The pleasure was definatley all mine to have known you twice. You had the biggest marshmallow heart and were such a giver. I always loved you and will never loose that love for you. Some words you sent to me once, I now need to send back to you (thanks for the mwahs..they arrived with a tail wind last night and did wonders…)I know that you are still boxing on Stef… oh and I do!
Friday, 7 December 2012
Paul. remembering yo is easy, I do it every day, but missing you is still a heartache that never goes away. Forever in my heart. mar
~
Mar Steig,
Sydney, New South Wales
Friday, 7 December 2012
Paul, what a pleasure to briefly know you. You made us most welcome in your home on a couple of our visits to meet our “lost” relatives in Melbourne. Nothing was too much trouble for you.You were charming, funny and a pleasure to meet. May you rest in peace. xx Des, Angela and Leon Fedasch
~
Des and Angela Fedasch,
Bourne, England
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. A tender thought that brings a tear, A silent wish that you were here. xo (There ’tis.) Deepest sympathy to Peter and the Stefaniw family. – Linda.
Published in: Herald Sun
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Thank you for sharing a lifetime of good and happy memories. We will miss you – Mr and Mrs D, Lee, Deb and Mike.
Published in: Herald Sun
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Members of the Blue Ribbon Foundation would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to Peter and members of the Stefaniw family on the passing of Paul. We have lost a loyal friend, and the community, a dedicated member of its Police Force.
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. “Big Kahuna” One of the nicest guys in the job. Gone Fishing – Dr Smith.
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Deepest sympathy and condolences to Pete and family on the tragic loss of Paul. – Past and Present Members of the Specialist Response Division (Water Police, Search and Rescue, Police Air Wing).
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. A great man and an even greater friend. We will miss your regular holidays here with us. Forever in our hearts – John and Di.
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. The Management and Staff at the Traffic Camera Office mourn the passing of their work colleague Leading Senior Constable Paul Stefaniw 25440. Paul was a long- standing member at the TCO and was a valued friend and colleague to all. Our deepest condolences to Maryanne, Lesia, Nick and his family. (Goodbye Big Kahuna)
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Stefaniw and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Our long time friend and associate Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and children. – Sarah and Paul, Jessica and Robbie Williams and Neil Gloster. Sadly Missed
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. L/S/C 25440 Members of the Kingston CIU would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to Peter and members of the Stefaniw family on the loss of a respected member of the Victoria Police.
Published in: Herald Sun
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Dearest Paul, you are an amazing person, and an even better uncle. Love – Rhiannon.
Published in: Herald Sun
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Darling Paul, memories of you are endless. Love and miss you. – ‘Detty’.
Published in: Herald Sun
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. Uncle Paul, I will miss you forever. – Adam. Rest in Peace ‘Les Mykyta’
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. The Office of the Assistant Commissioner of the Road Policing Command is deeply saddened by the loss of leading Senior Constable Paul Stefaniw. The Road Policing Command send their condolences to Paul’s family and friends.
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul Taras. Leading Senior Constable 25440 The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
Published in: Herald Sun
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul LSC 25440. My dearest brother Paul, your tour of duty has now concluded. Rest gently in peace so your heart can relax. You were born, lived and died in my heart. What an honour to know you. All my love ‘Big Kahuna’ – Pete.
Published in: Herald Sun
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. My dearest brother and friend, my rare and precious gift. Love – Roxolana.
Published in: Herald Sun
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul. My loving uncle and Godfather, I always looked up to you. Now you’re even higher. Say hi to Buc. Love – Valiska.
Published in: Herald Sun
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STEFANIW. – Paul Taras. My Dear Husband Paul, Thank you for all the wonderful memories we shared over the years. Thank you for the beautiful children we have. The emptiness that is now left can never be filled. I pray you find serenity in your ‘perfect world’. Rest in peace -Maryanne. My Loving Dad, Thank you for every moment you made me happy. I will continue to carry out my duties and never stop our activities of camping and fishing. I will make you a very proud father, for I know you will be looking down from above helping and cheering me on. Rest in peace. Gone fishin’ – Nicholas. To Dad, There aren’t enough words in the world to say how much I love you and how much I will miss you. Thank you for every day in which you made me laugh. I wish you were here with us. Give Busia a big hug. Love always – Lesia. Forever yours – Kyrka.
PETER: When you’re growing up, people think you have a telepathic connection to your twin, but it doesn’t always work out that way; we’re not mind readers.
Though once we went to the same (police) job and I managed to get to the house at the same time as Paul, just as the (criminal) disappeared towards the back of the house. It’s almost as if I sent Paul a mental fax: “Go round the back”. And Paul has high-tailed it and managed to get there in time and have the guy run straight into him.
We cuffed him and the guy couldn’t work out how I got from the front to the back so fast. He looked at us and said something like, “I think I got a bad batch (of drugs) today”. Another time, there was a colleague killed on duty and Paul was the first one there, and I could just feel the vibe from him; it was almost like a radiant heat wall, a wave of depression. You can read the body play and language.
People do have a sense of curiosity, especially when you walk into a room, two policemen. And my wife is a triplet; they’re not identical, but the line you get is, “If you have kids, are you going to have quintuplets?” To a certain degree you can take being an identical twin for granted, but we like it.
PAUL: People still perceive you to be half of another person, yet you are an individual. You ham it up, you make the most of what it is.
Growing up it’s like a novelty, then as you get older it starts wearing thin – year after year the same lines, jokes, catchphrases. It’s good fun at school – there were a few problems with girlfriends or perceived friends who mistook us. Once I went on a date with a girl who had brown hair and we went to this particular restaurant; after that Peter and his blonde girlfriend went there and this waitress threw the meal down on the table.
It was not until we went on a double-date there that the waitress realised there were two of us; she thought one of us was dating two and doing the dirty, and she’d taken the woman’s perspective – “Here’s your bloody spaghetti”. She was so apologetic.
I was in the water police at the time Peter was a police helicopter observer. One time he was out on a search for a young girl in Wangaratta, and I was getting ready to go to work. Out of the blue I just stopped and called out his name, loudly, “Peter”, and then just went to work. On a patrol later that afternoon I was pulled aside and told by my boss that the helicopter crashed and Peter was in it, and almost killed.
That moment (when I called out his name) was when it happened. That was weird. Twins will relate to that telepathy thing. Overall, being an identical twin is a plus. If you don’t know any different, it’s a bonus. It’s Mother Nature’s gift.
My deepest condolences to the Stefaniw family… I met Peter and Paul at interstate Police basketball championships back in the 80’s… Both very lovely blokes… Very sad to hear this news… Felicity Harley
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Deepest sympathy for your sad loss.I went to kindergarten and primary school with Paul & Peter.His birthday was the first boys party Cheryl and I had been invited to.My thoughts are with Peter and his family. Carol
~
Carol Swayn,
Queensland
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
I am very sorry to here this on SBS Twins. Condolances to all who new Paul
~
Roby Gillman
Wednesday, 25 December 2013
I’m allways sad my dealest friend Paul isn’t here!Marietta
~
Marietta Steiger,
Luzern
Wednesday, 30 October 2013
Miss you Paul, you were a wonderful person, I think of you often and will always remember your greeting to me in the office “Woof”, and our discussions about your dogs and cats.
~
Dilys Clarke,
Melbourne, Victoria
Tuesday, 22 October 2013
Stef, still thinking of you mate and you are truly missed. I still cant believe you have left us!! A true friend and a top fella. Dont forget “its ok”.
~
a. badaracchi,
melbourne, Victoria
Wednesday, 29 May 2013
Not a day goes past that I don’t think about you, missing you always x
~
Rhiannon Dipple,
Melbourne, Victoria
Monday, 7 January 2013
Paul, Since hearing the news of your passing, it has been very difficult, both with a heavy heart and with many tears shed, to write what I feel.
You have given me many fond memories in my life, from our many wonderful times during our years in Plast, as well as the times you visited Adelaide to celebrate birthdays or just for a visit. I will cherish these memories forever.
Today, our Christmas Day, I wanted you to know that you are sadly missed and that my thoughts and prayers and heart are with you, Peter, Roxy and your family.
Vichnaya Pamyat
~
Sonia Borysiuk,
Adelaide, South Australia
Monday, 24 December 2012
Thinking of the Stefaniw family during this difficult time especially on the eve of christmas. Its funny I never met Paul but felt like I knew him through hearing lovely positive stories about him from my mum and our friend who attended the same Church and through an ex partner who is also VicPol. I felt deeply saddened as a human being,a fellow ukrainian and an ex “plastunka” on hearing of his passing. Clearly a beautiful soul as evidenced by the tributes on this site and all that knew him. Gone too soon though Paul will live on in many hearts. Rest in Peace Paul. Love, Solace and Strength to your twin brother Peter, your beautiful children and all the Stefaniw family.
Le vent souffle
l’amour s’ecoule
le temps s’arréte
et avec toi, je reste
~
St Tre,
Ceduna, South Australia
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/heraldsun-au/paul-stefaniw-condolences/161446933#sthash.uw0TN08I.dpuf
E. F. T. CRAMPTON
| 31/07/2014
E. F. T. CRAMPTON
Queensland Police Force
Constable
Stationed at Yeulba ( Yuleba )
Suicide – firearm
Died 4 September 1907
Constable’s Death.
The Chief Inspector of Police at Brisbane has received a telegram intimating that on the 4th instant Constable E. F. T. Crampton who was stationed at Yeulba, entered his ofiice and shot himself with his revolver. The district inspector has gone to Yeulba to investigate. Constable Crampton who was a married man with a wife and family had been transferred to Yeulba a few days ago from the Charleville district where he had been doing relieving duty.
The Brisbane Courier ( Qld ) Saturday 7 September 1907 page 4 of 16
As inquiry was held before Mr. Wm. Harris, P.M., at Yeulba on Friday into the death of Constable Crampton, who committed suicide by shooting himself with a revolver on Thursday morning last.
The evidence of George Howe, a contractor at Yeulba, was to the effect that he had been occupied about a week repairing the police buildings, and that deceased arrived there on 27th August. Deceased appeared low spirited, and complained of having no sleep. In the middle of a conversation he would get up and walk away. On the 3rd, deceased picked up a cartridge, which he put in his mouth, exclaiming “Bang.” On the 4th, a man in Howe’s employ told Howe the constable was walking about with a revolver in his hand. Howe went to the constable and asked him what he wanted to be playing with the revolver for, and Crampton remarked, ” It is very tempting being under my nose.” Later he put the revolver in a pigeon hole. That was the last time he saw Crampton alive. The following morning Howe and Darr found him dead on the floor of his room.
Masy Crampton, widow of deceased, deposed that her husband had been very worried over business matters. He had left the police and gone into business at Oakey, but bad lost money and rejoined the force. Later he was transferred to Charleville and Yeulba. In his letters to her he complained of the idea of having to take his family to Charlevill, also of having no sleep. He was a temperate man.
Henry Darr, H. McLoughlin, J.P., Constable Joyce, Dr. Pratt (Government medical officer), and several others gave evidence.
The Argus ( Melbourne, Vic. ) Monday 9 October 1893 page 6 of 8
SUICIDE AT THE RUSSELL STREET BARRACKS.
SERGEANT DERRY SHOOTS HIMSELF.
On Saturday morning Sergeant F. C. Derry, who acted as clerk to Superintendent Sadlier, committed suicide by shooting himself at the Russell street barracks. No reason can be assigned for his act. He was happy in his domestic relations was well advanced in grade in the force, held a comfortable position as clerk to the inspecting superintendent, and was almost, if not quite, a total abstainer from intoxicants. In these circumstances and the additional favourable features of good health and a happy temperament, the members of the force have been compelled to the opinion that his act was the result of some sudden impulse which cannot be explained. Derry was 38 years of age, and a married man with a wife and two children. He entered the Permanent Artillery in 1874, and a year later joined the police force. In May, 1887, he was promoted to the rank of senior constable, and in February, 1892, to a second class sergeant. His clerical ability which in 1884 carried him with honours through the officers examination, marked him as specially suitable for a position on the office staff, and when Sergeant Crampton was promoted to the rank of sub- inspector and left the office of the inspecting superintendent, Derry was appointed to take his place as chief clerk. In his new position Derry worked untiringly and with much success, and having a talent for organisation he devoted himself to the task of making a success of the police brass band, of the committee of which he was chairman. His efforts and the efforts of those associated with him were an unqualified success as the record of two years, during which £5OO or so has been raised by the band for charities testifies. On Saturday morning Derry seemed in his usual health and spirits, but soon after he had entered his office Constable McGuinness heard a pistol shot, and upon running into Derry’s room he found him lying on the floor with a smoking pistol in his hand. Sergeant Byrne was called, and though he saw that the pistol bullet having entered the sergeants mouth, was still embedded in his brain, and had undoubtedly caused instant death, he ordered the body to be at once removed to the Melbourne Hospital. This was done, and Dr Desailly examined the patient but his examination confirmed the opinion of Sergent Byrne. The bullet had evidently been fired while the pistol was held in the mouth, and it had caused immediate death. Mr Sadleir examined the sergeants papers and found them correct in every particular, and he then communicated the fact of his death to the chief commissioner. An inquest will be held to day at noon.
UPDATE 5.36pm: A POLICEMAN found shot dead with his own gun at an outer Melbourne station was under investigation.
The officer-in-charge is believed to have been shot by his own gun at Healesville police station in Melbourne’s outer east about 9.30pm.
Victoria Police named him as Sergeant Anthony Vangorp.
Paramedics arrived to find the sergeant had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and had died at the scene.
A police gun was found nearby.
Emergency crews could not revive him.
The officer, who had more than 30 years’ experience in the force, had been under investigation and tendered his resignation on Friday after a probe into “disciplinary issues”.
The resignation took effect yesterday, and it is believed the officer took his own life after returning to collect his belongings last night.
Other officers at the station had left on an urgent job, leaving him at the station alone, before returning to make the shock discovery.
There are no suspicious circumstances, but Assistant Commissioner Ken Lay told Radio 3AW that investigators would examine how the former officer was able to get access to a police-issue firearm.
He said the death had come as a shock to his colleagues, and that he was well liked and respected.
It is understood the member leaves behind a female partner.
“This is pretty horrible for the local police, for the member’s family and for the broader community,” Mr Lay said.
“He was a well-known member up there. Overall, it’s a pretty sad event,”
He said the officer had spent much of his time in the eastern region in his “30-odd years” of service.
Mr Lay confirmed police management had been talking with the officer last week about “a number of issues”.
But he would not reveal details of the investigation “out of respect to the member, his family and the staff out there”, other than to confirm that it was not a corruption investigation.
He would not comment on suggestions that the officer was going to be sacked if he did not resign.
The homicide squad, ethical standards department and the Coroner are investigating, with police expected to prepare a report for the Coroner.
THOMAS HUNTER: The police officer found dead at a station in Melbourne’s outer east last night has been named as Sergeant Anthony Vangorp.
The 47-year-old officer in charge had been under investigation for ‘‘serious discipline matters’’ in the week before his death, Victoria Police confirmed in a statement.
Two officers returning from divisional van duties found Sergeant Vangorp’s body at the Healesville police station about 9.30pm.
He had a gunshot wound to the head, believed to have been inflicted by a police gun, which was found at his side. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
Sergeant Vangorp, a 30-year veteran of the force, was alone in the three-member station at the time.
Deputy Commissioner Ken Lay said Sergeant Vangorp had tendered his resignation last week after being questioned by police management about “a number of issues’’, but not corruption.
He said the sergeant’s resignation became effective yesterday, and an investigation into his death would probe how he had access to a weapon.
‘‘He was actually there [at the police station] collecting his belongings,’’ Mr Lay told radio station 3AW.
‘‘He had spoken to a couple of members who were at the station while he was doing that. They had to sneak out and do a quick job. When they came back they, unfortunately, found what they found.
‘‘This is pretty horrible for the local police, for the member’s family and for the broader community. He was a well-known member up there.’’
It is understood Sergeant Vangorp had two adult children.
For help or information visit beyondblue.org.au, call Suicide Helpline Victoria on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131 114.
Blog comments
This is just sad. Sad for his family, sad for his friends, his workmates, for the Police Force and anyone involved. This will seriously change many lives and leave very deep scars and pain for many years to come. My heart go out to his family, friends and to our members, just keep holding that thin blue line…
Current Member Thursday 8 April, 2010 – 2:16 PM
This is just a complete tragedy for the family left behind, including the members. How dare force command act the way they have and wipe the blood from their hands without conscience. Unfortunately, this is not the only member to take his life due to the actions of the force in the last 6 months… so sad, condolences to the family.
disillusioned tjf Friday 26 March, 2010 – 12:47 AM
This is a sad ingigdment on our community, police force and government. Although never a servicing officer I have over the years known many servicing officers and I refuse to use the term “members” as members belong to clubs! This is a true reflection of the political involvement into our once respected police force in Victoria and confirms the assumptions of many that our former and current Chief commiissioner and deputies are nothing more than puppets of the state. Mr. Overland is an appointed CC of the current state government as was his predecessor along with his deputies also, Mr, Lay although a well liked man is unfortunately a yes man that has risen to his current position by his inability to stand his ground on issues where he know’s wrong is being done. Yet he fully accepts his position and standing in the communmity regardless of the current situation within Victoria Police. It is a sad fact that we have so much violence on our streets, disrespect of community and police yet nothing is being proactively done to rectify the issues, just more spin.
Police force or political representatives?
Shane Thursday 25 March, 2010 – 9:56 PM
this is more politically correct rubbish from the higher up officials , Police officers are just Human and should be able to look at emails as long as they are Not outside the Law that applies to each and everyone of us , No wonder police are leaving faster than they can recruit them
Wayne Harris Wednesday 24 March, 2010 – 5:47 PM
This is just another disgrace by Victoria Police. I was a member for 42 and a half years, I was pushed out the door. I suffered from Post traumatic disorder which came about after being involved in a number of serious incidents over the years including being shot at and other serious issues. I spoke to Christine NIXON prior to my departure about two issues that are close to me. the first being the treatment of our Indigenous Population by Victoria Police, and the second being the treatment of members and the lack of welfare support. Christine did not want to know about anything about it. My issues came to a head after I was forced by an Officer to Lock up a current serving member, who was also a mate of mine, after he found himself in a situation with serious mental health issues brought about by some tragic issues that he had been involved in as part of his work. Vale Tony VAN GORP, a mans man, and another senior member crunched by an unjust employer.
Brian McCALLUM Wednesday 24 March, 2010 – 5:03 PM
This is a disgrace! The Vic Police force is leaving this poor mans family in a shadow of doubt. If all he did was misuse emails why on earth was he forced to resign?? Is this more of passed leaders culture surfacing here??
alexas Wednesday 24 March, 2010 – 2:02 PM
I think police command have to come clean with this. I smell fish and they should be up front for the sake of the public and the family
Julie- Bayswater Wednesday 24 March, 2010 – 2:25 AM
My thoughts to the family and even more to the members on duty who are going to be disected and thrown out by ESD who will investigate this incident along with the homocide squad but for them 10 minutes. ESD is the biggest department in the Victoria police and you could easily put an extra 500 police on the street if you cut ESD by 1/3Seious misconduct can be a police officer getting a parking ticket or a speeding fine in his/her private vehicle susequently receiving 2 penalties civil and internal.Police management and ESD have no idea about staff management. ESD has and will always be seen as a path to promotion take down and discredit as many police as you can regardless of the parking ticket and you will fly through the ranks. Someone in ESD is now going to be the next chief commissioner for his tact on this.
Martin – Chiangmai Wednesday 24 March, 2010 – 2:06 AM
So sad Tony. Condolences to your family and collegues. I just hope that your death is not in vain and that a full enquiry into the circumstances of your death are conducted in a proper manner. Those that are responsible for the “Witch-Hunt” that led to this tragedy should hang their heads in shame. ESD should not be investigating this matter. They were the ones who led the investigation into your ALLEGED misdemeanours and should not be allowed to be involved into what will ultimately be another cover-up. The comments by Mr LAY were extremely inappropriate, suggesting that you were under investigation for serious discipline matters. Let him explain what this means, as I believe the community has a different idea.
By Kath Gannaway
THE death of Sergeant Tony Van Gorp last week sent shockwaves through the Healesville community.
Tributes have flowed for the popular, community-minded policeman who as officer in charge at Healesville for the past 15 years, played an active role in many community organisations, particularly local schools.
Sgt Van Gorp, 47, was found dead on Monday night (22 March) by two colleagues when they returned to the Healesville police station at around 9.30pm.
Victoria Police confirmed his death just after midnight, stating that a gun was found at the scene and that there were no suspicious circumstances. It was soon also confirmed that he had had taken his own life.
The Melbourne media went into meltdown, and the rumour mill in Healesville followed suit, as it was revealed that Sgt Van Gorp was under investigation for misuse of the police email system.
Speculation was fuelled by the fact that Sgt Van Gorp had tendered his resignation on 18 March after receiving a Section 68 notice from Chief Commissioner Simon Overland.
The notice was one of only two issued by Mr Overland following investigations by the Ethical Standards Department for what were said to be “serious discipline matters”.
A close friend of Sgt Van Gorp has told the Mail he believed the letter was an ultimatum – resign or be sacked.
Much of the reporting on the police email crackdown last week revolved around other investigations being conducted by the ESD relating to racist and pornographic emails which Mr Overland said would shock the community.
He went on record on Thursday however as saying that the email for which he had delivered the section 68 to Sgt Van Gorp was neither racist, nor illegal.
Mr Overland has strongly rejected accusations that the Section 68 was a heavy-handed approach saying the email was sufficiently ‘serious’ to warrant the action.
He gave no indication as to the direction the ESD investigations into Sgt Van Gorp’s matter would now take, or if and when the exact nature of the email would be made known.
More stories on pages 8 and 9
Police officer’s suicide may have been avoided over email scandal
Simon Overland has been implicated in the investigation over a police officer’s suicide. Picture: Greg Scullin Source: Herald Sun
UPDATE 3pm: POLICE command says action taken to discipline an officer who later took his own life was “right and proper”.
The Office of Police Integrity is investigating claims that senior police – including Chief Commissioner Simon Overland – overlooked legal advice about how to discipline a police officer who later killed himself.
Healesville sergeant Tony Vangorp fatally shot himself after he was told to expect a Section 68 notice during Operation Barrott, an OPI-Ethical Standards Department probe into pornographic, racist and homophobic emails circulating among police.
The rarely used 68s are rubber-stamped by the Chief Commissioner and demand recipients show cause why they should not be sacked.
The Victorian Government Solicitor’s office is believed to have issued formal advice to senior police that 68s would be inappropriate in those cases. Internal police lawyers gave top brass similar legal advice.
The OPI has been told police may have misapplied their powers by issuing no-confidence notices during the email scandal that swept the force last year.
The officers implicated are Supt Lisa McMeeken, Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius and Mr Overland.
Police Association boss Greg Davies said he was amazed to hear of the allegations Mr Overland had disregarded advice.
“If that’s right and if those actions have contributed in any way, shape or form to the death of Tony Vangorp the Chief Commissioner surely cannot remain in office, then there’s only one person that’s made that decision in blatant disregard for internal and external legal advice that said don’t do it,’’ Snr-Sgt Davies said.
But in a statement released today, a Victoria Police spokesperson said police were confident they had followed proper procedure.
“Victoria Police is confident that the steps taken in relation to Sgt Tony Van Gorp in March last year were right and proper. These included, in recognition of the strong public interest in the matter from the outset, asking OPI to actively oversight our investigations,” the statement said.
“However we do not believe that the interests of the Van Gorp family are well served by further speculation and unseemly criticism in the media.
“The coronial process, in which we have confidence, must be allowed to run its course.”
The spokesperson said police would await the findings of the coronial inquest before making any further comment.
Mr Overland said today he did not ignore legal advice about issuing a disciplinary notice to Sgt Van Gorp.
“If there is an OPI investigation into that, that’s fine and I welcome that,’’ he said.
“I have absolutely nothing to fear or hide in relation to that particular case.’’
Mr Overland said he was the only person who could issue the rarely used Section 68 notice, and legal advice surrounding them was often contradictory.
He said Sgt Van Gorp resigned after the notice was issued.
Premier Ted Baillieu said today Mr Overland had his full support.
“I haven’t seen the issue in detail but the answer is yes (I have faith in Mr Overland),” he said.
The Herald Sun understands that another 68 issued under Barrott – to a senior detective in Geelong – has been withdrawn.
Senior police were advised that a Section 69 notice, which refers suspect officers to a disciplinary hearing, would be a more suitable way to deal with those caught up in Barrott.
Eight officers were sacked and about 13 others fined or demoted after they were found with vile emails on their computers last year. Several have lodged appeals.
An OPI spokesman last night said the office was “actively oversighting Operation Barrott and associated matters”.
Sgt Van Gorp, a 30-year police veteran, shot himself at his police station last March. His death is before the Coroner’s Court.
Of the six 68s issued in Victoria, only one has not been overturned.
In advising against 68 notices, one government solicitor cited a precedent involving a fraud squad member disciplined with a 69 notice for having similarly offensive emails on his computer.
Anyone with personal problems can call Lifeline on 131 114; Victorian Statewide Suicide Helpline on 1300 651 251; or Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978.
By Kath Gannaway
Sgt van Gorp took his own life five days after receiving a rarely invoked Section 68 notice in relation to a probe into emails circulating among police.
The Section 68 notice demands that the recipient show cause why they should not be sacked.
Victoria Police issued a statement last week in response to claims made in the Herald Sun that the Office of Police Integrity was investigating whether senior police, including Chief Commissioner Simon Overland, had overlooked legal advice about the use of the Section 68.
Another option would have been a Section 69, which refers the recipient to a disciplinary hearing.
Sgt van Gorp’s brother, Fred van Gorp told the Mail he was pleased to hear the OPI was investigating the circumstances around the way his brother was disciplined.
“It is what we were hoping for from the start,” he said.
“The Section 68 is for criminals; police who have committed criminal activity, and what I am gathering from all this is that he should have got a Section 69 instead of the Section 68.”
Victoria Police however say they are confident the steps taken were “right and proper”.
“These included, in recognition of the strong public interest in the matter from the outset, asking OPI to actively oversight our investigations,” the statement said.
“The coronial process, in which we have confidence, must be allowed to run its course.”
Mr van Gorp however said he had not been advised as to whether the police report into his brother’s death had been handed over to the Coroner.
“I have been ringing the police for the last 17 months to find out and we’re still waiting,” he said.
A spokesperson for the Coroner’s Court told the Mail on Friday they could not do anything until the police had finished their part.
“We have not received anything from the police yet that has been logged as at Mid-March,” she said.
Detective Inspector John Potter of the Homicide Squad confirmed on Monday that the brief of evidence was finished, but said it was still under review.
He said that review was an internal police mechanism involving both the OPI and the Ethical Standards Department.
Det Insp Potter said the brief should be with the Coroner by early next month.
By Kath Gannaway
Sgt van Gorp, 47, took his own life at the Healesville police station on 22 March 2010.
He had resigned from Victoria Police five days earlier, after he was issued with a Section 68 notice of no confidence by then Commissioner of Police Simon Overland.
Sgt van Gorp was under investigation at the time for misuse of the police email system.
Mr Olle told a packed court at a mention hearing on Wednesday 30 November that an inquest into Sgt van Gorp’s death “ … would appear to be the antithesis of what Sergeant van Gorp would have wanted in life”, but did not elaborate on the basis for that statement.
He said the hearing was to help determine whether it was necessary or appropriate to conduct an inquest.
He said the police investigation brief submitted to him was thorough, containing 64 statements and addressing, among other matters the circumstances in which Victoria Police made decisions to serve the Section 68 notice.
He noted that Victoria Police had subsequently made changes to the process involved in serving no-confidence notices.
Mr Olle allowed 14 days for submissions.
“Subject to submissions from interested parties in this matter urging a different view, it appears that the facts and circumstances are clear and that the conduct of an inquest would be beyond the scope of my statutory obligations,” he said.
Sgt Van Gorp’s partner Gayle Shelley and his brother Fred van Gorp were in the court, but declined to comment on the matter pending further submissions.
A further hearing will be held on 16 December.
By Kath Gannaway and Melissa Meehan
THE Police Association is pushing for an inquest into the apparent suicide of Healesville Sergeant Tony van Gorp.
Theo Cassamatis, representing both the Police Association and partner Gayle Shelley and brother Fred van Gorp, told the Melbourne Coroners Court on Friday that the court brief was just the beginning of the story.
He said without an inquest, the true circumstances of Sgt van Gorp’s death at Healesville Police Station in March last year and the reasons for the way he was treated would not be revealed.
“Unless that question is answered, as to why this man was targeted, whatever amendments are put in place that they are as susceptible to failure or error as those in place when Tony van Gorp was issued with the Section 68 notice,” Mr Cassamatis said.
“The answer why can only be achieved by interrogating those who have made statements.”
Mr Cassamatis dismissed what he called a misconception that an inquest is not what Sgt van Gorp wanted.
“The circumstances surrounding his death have already been aired,” Mr Cassamatis said.
“The people of Healesville know all too well why he ended his life.”
Dr Ian Freckleton SC, representing the Chief Commissioner made the point that some things may come out that could reflect badly on Sgt van Gorp but acknowledged that other than the email incident he had a flawless 32 year history in the force.
Coroner John Olle said he would take both arguments into consideration and come back with a decision in the new year.
Sgt van Gorp’s partner Gayle Shelley and his brother Fred were among family members at the hearing.
By Kath Gannaway and Melissa Meehan
THE Police Association is pushing for an inquest into the apparent suicide of Healesville Sergeant Tony van Gorp.
Theo Cassamatis, representing both the Police Association and partner Gayle Shelley and brother Fred van Gorp, told the Melbourne Coroners Court on Friday that the court brief was just the beginning of the story.
He said without an inquest, the true circumstances of Sgt van Gorp’s death at Healesville Police Station in March last year and the reasons for the way he was treated would not be revealed.
“Unless that question is answered, as to why this man was targeted, whatever amendments are put in place that they are as susceptible to failure or error as those in place when Tony van Gorp was issued with the Section 68 notice,” Mr Cassamatis said.
“The answer why can only be achieved by interrogating those who have made statements.”
Mr Cassamatis dismissed what he called a misconception that an inquest is not what Sgt van Gorp wanted.
“The circumstances surrounding his death have already been aired,” Mr Cassamatis said.
“The people of Healesville know all too well why he ended his life.”
Dr Ian Freckleton SC, representing the Chief Commissioner made the point that some things may come out that could reflect badly on Sgt van Gorp but acknowledged that other than the email incident he had a flawless 32 year history in the force.
Coroner John Olle said he would take both arguments into consideration and come back with a decision in the new year.
Sgt van Gorp’s partner Gayle Shelley and his brother Fred were among family members at the hearing.
By Kath Gannaway
THE two people closest to Tony van Gorp, his partner Gayle Shelley, and his brother Fred van Gorp, have maintained a dignified silence over the past two years.
Behind the scenes, they’ve grieved, fought for justice and the reputation of the Healesville police sergeant, and for changes to Victoria Police disciplinary processes to ensure what happened in Healesville on 22 March, 2010, never happens again.
The grieving is their own, but they had hoped that the inquest they and the Victorian Police Association were calling for would deliver the answers and changes they and other police wanted.
As they sat in the Coroner’s Court in Melbourne on Wednesday, 15 February Ms Shelley bowed her head several times as Coroner John Olle read out his decision. Fred van Gorp looked resigned; perhaps even defeated.
With his decision the Coroner put an end to any resolution on the question of accountability of the Chief Commissioner of Police at the time, Simon Overland, and the right or wrong of issuing the Section 68.
“He had 31 years’ experience, but it didn’t seem to account for anything in terms of what happened. Tony was just backed into a corner; he felt like he had nothing else,” Ms Shelley said.
“I was with him when he went to the (Police) Association. He lived on his public image, it was part of him, and when he got the notice, he realised he had let people down, and I suppose he let himself down,” she said.
“He knew there would be consequences … everybody makes mistakes but it (the Section 68) was designed for criminal (behaviour) and what Tony did certainly was not criminal,” she said, adding that she felt those issues have been brushed under the carpet.
Nonetheless, with their usual dignity, they say they have accepted the Coroner’s decision, but hope with the ongoing investigation the Coroner will at the very least address what they believe was a critical failure by Victoria Police – the lack of welfare provided to Sgt van Gorp after the delivery of the Section 68.
Admitting disappointment, he said however the Coroner’s response was a balanced one.
“Hopefully any future findings will ensure this never happens to another police officer again and that anyone put in that position gets adequate support and counselling,” Mr van Gorp said.
“We know now that we are not going to get an inquest, and perhaps we can move on a little bit from there,” he said.
In response to the Coroner’s comment that his findings would include Sgt van Gorp’s presence at the police station on the night of his death, both Ms Shelley and Mr van Gorp reflected with the benefit of hindsight, and say no-one could have known what was coming.
“Tony and Gayle had been planning on going on trips, and he was planning a fishing trip the next day … we didn’t expect it.
“It was a unique position (at Healesville police station) as officer in charge for 15 years, and while that’s probably something that needs to be addressed in the future, I don’t hold anyone (at Healesville) responsible for what happened on that night,” he said.
Ms Shelley said his colleagues had gone through great personal hardship over Sgt van Gorp’s death. “No-one is to blame there,” she said.
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SANE Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).
By Kath Gannaway
THERE will be no inquest into the death two years ago of Healesville Police Sergeant Tony van Gorp.
Sgt van Gorp, 47, was found dead at Healesville Police Station on 22 March, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was under investigation in relation to misuse of the police email system and had been issued with a Section 68 (no-confidence) notice by the then Chief Commissioner of Police Simon Overland, five days before his death.
Sgt van Gorp’s partner Gayle Shelley and the Police Association had sought an inquest as part of Coroner John Olle’s ongoing investigation, partially to determine why Sgt van Gorp had been singled out by Commissioner Overland for what was seen as harsh and unusual treatment, and to restore his reputation.
Coroner John Olle ruled on Wednesday, 15 February, at the Coroner’s Court in Melbourne that the matters raised were beyond his jurisdiction in terms of an inquest and said he was satisfied that the cause and circumstances of Sgt van Gorp’s death could be established without one.
Coroner Olle said he had considered submissions from Ms Shelley and the Police Association (the applicants), as well as from the Chief Commissioner of Police in making his decision.
He said the basis for the applicants’ submission included a need to determine why the Chief Commissioner had considered dismissal as the appropriate action, to dispel claims that new procedures since introduced were appropriate and to bring about changes to legislation, including the removal of Section 68 notices.
While the submission made by the Chief Commissioner of Police neither argued for or against an inquest, it contended that an examination of the Chief Commissioner’s powers of dismissal were outside the scope of the coroner’s jurisdiction and that there was no evidence of systematic defects which needed to be explored as part of an inquest.
In relation to Sgt van Gorp’s reputation, he said the reputation of an individual was outside both the scope and legitimate purpose of an inquest, and outside the control of the coronial process.
“How matters are reported in the media cannot be controlled and have the potential to be very disturbing and intrusive to family members,” he said.
He said having examined the 963-page brief of evidence, he found no evidence to suggest that anyone who knew Sgt van Gorp thought less of him as a result of his behaviour.
While Ms Shelley said she was sceptical about the submissions put forward by the Commissioner of Police, and that she felt the issues around the Section 68 notice had been swept under the carpet, she said she accepted the decision.
Police Association secretary Greg Davies said the association was still vehemently opposed to the Section 68 process and had been in negotiations with the government in terms of a range of issues that needed to be addressed by the government, rather than by police. He said those negotiations were continuing.
He noted that the coroner had said his preliminary view was that the facts and circumstances of Sgt van Gorp’s death were clear and that an inquest was beyond his statutory obligations.On the matter of whether there was a systematic defect (in issuing the section 68) Mr Davies said the door was not closed on that question.
“He (the Coroner) is not saying there is no systematic defect, but that there is no systematic defect that requires an inquest. He may determine independently of an inquest that there is, or he may not,” he said.
He said the association accepted the coroner’s decision and would wait on the outcome of the investigation to see what end result would be. Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SANE Helpline on 1800 18 SANE (7263).
>>> For more on Van Corp inquest issue see Page 3.
Partner wins compensation over police sergeant’s suicide
The former de-facto wife of a respected 30-year policeman who shot himself at work has won a six-figure compensation payout from Victoria Police’s WorkCover insurer.
One of Sergeant Tony Van Gorp’s children will also receive compensation after police settled both claims before a contested County Court trial this week.
Sergeant Van Gorp died on March 22, 2010, at the Healesville Police Station five days after he was served with a notice of proposed dismissal for misconduct.
Then chief commissioner Simon Overland issued the notice after Sergeant Van Gorp, 47, was found to have received, stored and sent pornographic and inappropriate emails.
Gayle Shelley told Fairfax Media she was relieved the case was resolved, but was “extremely disappointed” that Mr Overland “elected to single Tony out so dramatically”.
“Tony was a dedicated member of the Victoria Police Force for 30 years and we now want to honour the work that he did and the person who he was,” she said.
A coroner later found that “everyone, including police colleagues, appeared to agree with (Sergeant Van Gorp) that the (notice) was ‘heavy handed’ for the behaviour he engaged in”.
In his findings last May, published today by The Age for the first time, the coroner John Olle said that in the days before his death he was very well supported by family, friends and colleagues.
Sergeant Van Gorp had regarded his behaviour as stupid but thought the notice was “heavy handed”, Mr Olle said.
He said it was clear he was “suffering” from the abrupt end of his career – his resignation was accepted and effective on March 27 – but no one, including a doctor and a psychologist, believed he was at risk of self harm.
He found that the “evidence suggests that Victoria Police were aware” the effect of the notice of Sergeant Van Gorp would be “shocking”.
Mr Olle further said that central to his actions on the night of his death was that he believed “people would think less of him “over the notice but that his perspective “on this matter was not supported by the evidence …”
Ms Shelley, who had been Sergeant Van Gorp’s partner since 2004, sued after Victoria Police’s insurer rejected her initial claim.
A major dispute between the parties centred on the appropriateness of the dismissal procedure, whether it caused or contributed to any mental injury and exposed Sergeant Van Gorp to the risk of harm.
Ms Shelley’s lawyer, Craig Sidebottom, of Slater & Gordon, told Fairfax Media that the “manner in which Victoria Police dealt with Tony was both unprecedented and heavy handed”.
“The power of dismissal that resided in s68 of the Police Regulation Act should have only be exercised by the Chief Commissioner very sparingly and ought be reserved for cases involving major corruption or criminal offence.
“Section 68 is a draconian provision. There were far better alternatives available to the Chief Commissioner when dealing with these issues.”
A police spokeswoman told Fairfax Media that ‘‘as Victoria Police is not a party to the proceedings, it is not for us to comment’’.
‘‘Tony Van Gorp’s death was a tragedy and Victoria Police extend our sympathy to his family and friends,’’ the spokeswoman added.
Partner wins compensation over police sergeant’s suicide
Date
Steve Butcher
EXLUSIVE
The former de-facto wife of a respected 30-year policeman who shot himself at work has won a six-figure compensation payout from Victoria Police’s WorkCover insurer.
One of Sergeant Tony Van Gorp’s children will also receive compensation after police settled both claims before a contested County Court trial this week.
Sergeant Van Gorp died on March 22, 2010, at the Healesville Police Station five days after he was served with a notice of proposed dismissal for misconduct.
Then chief commissioner Simon Overland issued the notice after Sergeant Van Gorp, 47, was found to have received, stored and sent pornographic and inappropriate emails.
Gayle Shelley told Fairfax Media she was relieved the case was resolved, but was “extremely disappointed” that Mr Overland “elected to single Tony out so dramatically”.
“Tony was a dedicated member of the Victoria Police Force for 30 years and we now want to honour the work that he did and the person who he was,” she said.
A coroner later found that “everyone, including police colleagues, appeared to agree with (Sergeant Van Gorp) that the (notice) was ‘heavy handed’ for the behaviour he engaged in”.
In his findings last May, published today by The Age for the first time, the coroner John Olle said that in the days before his death he was very well supported by family, friends and colleagues.
Sergeant Van Gorp had regarded his behaviour as stupid but thought the notice was “heavy handed”, Mr Olle said.
He said it was clear he was “suffering” from the abrupt end of his career – his resignation was accepted and effective on March 27 – but no one, including a doctor and a psychologist, believed he was at risk of self harm.
He found that the “evidence suggests that Victoria Police were aware” the effect of the notice of Sergeant Van Gorp would be “shocking”.
Mr Olle further said that central to his actions on the night of his death was that he believed “people would think less of him “over the notice but that his perspective “on this matter was not supported by the evidence …”
Ms Shelley, who had been Sergeant Van Gorp’s partner since 2004, sued after Victoria Police’s insurer rejected her initial claim.
A major dispute between the parties centred on the appropriateness of the dismissal procedure, whether it caused or contributed to any mental injury and exposed Sergeant Van Gorp to the risk of harm.
Ms Shelley’s lawyer, Craig Sidebottom, of Slater & Gordon, told Fairfax Media that the “manner in which Victoria Police dealt with Tony was both unprecedented and heavy handed”.
“The power of dismissal that resided in s68 of the Police Regulation Act should have only be exercised by the Chief Commissioner very sparingly and ought be reserved for cases involving major corruption or criminal offence.
“Section 68 is a draconian provision. There were far better alternatives available to the Chief Commissioner when dealing with these issues.”
A police spokeswoman told Fairfax Media that ‘‘as Victoria Police is not a party to the proceedings, it is not for us to comment’’.
‘‘Tony Van Gorp’s death was a tragedy and Victoria Police extend our sympathy to his family and friends,’’ the spokeswoman added.
For the purposes of this website ‘Q‘ represents those Police joining between 1 March 1862 ( commencement of NSWPF ) – 23 February 1915 ( Commencement of NSWPF current numbering system )
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 12 October 1906 ( aged 22 – 23 years old )
Stations: ?, Rugby – Death
Service: From 12 October 1906 to 21 December 1919 = 13 years, 2 months, 9 days Service
Born: 1884
Age: 36 old
Cause: Suicide – Jumped from a cliff
Died: 21 December 1919 – Belmore Falls, Robertson, NSW
Funeral: Saturday 27 December 1919, Robertson, NSW
Buried: Church of England, Robertson Cemetery, NSW
Media reports:
Goulburn Evening Penny Post ( N.S.W. )
Tuesday 30 December 1919 page 2 of 4
CONSTABLE DROWNS HIMSELF.
Moss Vale Monday. –
The body of Constable Oscar McDonald, of Rugby, near Young, who drowned himself on the 21st instant, came to the surface in a water hole at Belmore Falls, and was discovered on Saturday morning.
At the inquest a verdict of suicide while temporarily insane was returned.
He was 36 years of age, and leaves a wife and seven children.
The body of Constable Oscar McDonald, of Rugby, near Young, who drowned himself on the 21st instant, came to the surface in a waterhole at Belmore Falls, and was discovered on Saturday morning. At the inquest a verdict of suicide while temporarily insane was returned. He was 36 years of age, and leaves a wife and seven children.
The body of Constable Oscar McDonald, late of Rugby, near Young, who drowned himself on the 21st inst., came to the surface in a waterhole at Belmore Falls, Moss Vale.
At the inquest a verdict of suicide while temporarily insane was returned.
The body of Constable Oscar McDonald, of Rugby, near Young, who was missing from Sunday, 21 st instant, came to the surface of the waterhole at Belmore Falls, where his clothes and a note, to his wife stating that he was tired of his life were found, and was discovered on Friday morning and dragged out of the water.
At the inquest following the discovery, the district coroner (Mr. H. W. Taylor) returned a verdict of suicide whilst suffering from temporary insanity.
Deceased was a son of Mr. Robert McDonald, of Robertson, and was born in that township 36 years ago.
He leaves a widow (a daughter of Mr. John Lindsay, of Moss Vale) and seven children.
The remains were interred in the Church of England cemetery, Robertson, on Saturday, the Rev. J. F. Rofe officiating at the graveside.
The Southern Mail ( Bowral, NSW ) Friday 2 January 1920 page 2 of 4 The Suicide at Belmore Falls THE BODY FOUND.
The body of Constable Oscar McDonald, of Rugby, near Young, who had been missing since Sunday, the 21st December, came to the surface of the waterhole at Belmore Falls, and was discovered on Friday morning and dragged out of the water.
Some days previously the clothes of the missing man were found near the top of the falls with a note to his wife stating that he was tired of his life, and it was surmised that he had jumped into the deep waterhole 300ft beneath.
Efforts to recover the body by dragging, however, failed.
At the inquest following the discovery, the district coroner ( Mr. H. W. Taylor ) returned a verdict of suicide while suffering from temporary insanity.
Deceased was a son of Mr. Robert McDonald, of Robertson, and was born in that township 36 years ago.
He was on a visit to his birthplace on sick leave from the police force, suffering a nervous breakdown. A long bout of insomnia had left him in a state from which death would appear to give a happy release.
The late Constable McDonald leaves a widow ( a daughter of Mr. John Lindsay, of Moss Vale ) and seven children.
The remains were interred in the Church of England Cemetery, Robertson, on Saturday, the Rev J F Rofe officiating at the graveside.
THANKS.— The Widow, Family, and Relatives of the late Constable Oscar McDonald desire to Thank the police and public generally for their assistance and sympathy in their late sad bereavement.
The earliest mention of Rugby Police Station ( which no longer exists as a Police Station ) in the National Library of Australia is 16 December 1875.
In October 1900 there was a Constable Overton stationed at Rugby Police Station. ( “Possibly” Arnold OVERTON, NSWPF ‘Q’ 5265 – Born 1858 in England and joined the Police on 29 September 1886 )
As of 2014, there is no mention of Rugby Police Station, or Oscar McDonald inside the date range of 1900 – 1923.
In December of 1923 there was a Constable John Walderma CHITTY stationed at Rugby Police Station. ( No Find via Google or my records. Cal )
On 2 September 1927, approval was given for the installation of a telephone in Rugby Police Station.
The last mention of Rugby Police Station, in the papers of the day, is 4 July 1930.
On Saturday 19 July 2014, I ( Greg ‘Cal’ Callander ) went to the old Church on the corner of Illawarra Hwy & Meryla St, Robertson, to speak with the current Minister there.
He didn’t have any records with him and there are definitely no graves within the grounds of the Church, nor is there a Church of England Cemetery ( now ) – as stated in the article dated 2 January 1920.
The Minister did, however, direct me to one of the oldest residents in the area who runs the General Store up the road.
Before I troubled her, I attended the Robertson Cemetery located at the very end of Missingham Parade, Robertson in search of Oscar’s grave – at the below GPS co-ordinates.
It is a lovely cemetery, with graves dating back to the mid 1800’s and there would be no more than 100 marked graves there – but, as much as I searched, I could not locate the grave for Oscar.
There are several unmarked graves, there are several graves with upturned headstones that have fallen over with the process of time. There are also graves whereby the inscriptions just can’t be read, due to weathering and then there are the graves that are totally shrouded in thick creeper vines and trees.
After spending a considerable amount of time there, without success, I decided to go to the old General Store and speak with the elderly lady who runs the place.
Now, considering this funeral happened nearly 95 years ago, I introduced myself to the lady and told her exactly what I was seeking.
Now bugger me if, after all these years, she steps forward to the bench in front of her and says, “I know I have that book around here somewhere“.
From under a few news papers, she removes an old, hand written, brown tattered and torn book which holds most of the records of the Robertson Cemetery.
She flicks through the book to the appropriate date and there, before us, was the hand written note of her own long deceased father ( this lady is around 80 herself now ) is written:
“Decr 27th 1919.
Oscar McDonald buried in grave paid for by his father.”
Unfortunately there were no other details as to the location of the grave but, the woman assures me, Oscar would have been buried on the right hand side of the driveway as you enter the cemetery.
So, at this stage, that is the best I can do in relation to plotting exactly where Oscar is buried.
The elderly woman is retiring very soon, so this original book will be lost with time. She tells me that she has given a photostat copy to the local Rail Museum and the local Cemetery Trust – as the cemetery is owned by the Community.
Burial record of Oscar McDonald recorded in an old book in the General Store at Robertson, NSW ( 2014 ).
STEFANIW. – Paul. Members of the Blue Ribbon Foundation would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to Peter and members of the Stefaniw family on the passing of Paul. We have lost a loyal friend, and the community, a dedicated member of its Police Force.
STEFANIW. – Paul. Deepest sympathy and condolences to Pete and family on the tragic loss of Paul. – Past and Present Members of the Specialist Response Division (Water Police, Search and Rescue, Police Air Wing).
STEFANIW. – Paul. The Management and Staff at the Traffic Camera Office mourn the passing of their work colleague Leading Senior Constable Paul Stefaniw 25440. Paul was a long- standing member at the TCO and was a valued friend and colleague to all. Our deepest condolences to Maryanne, Lesia, Nick and his family. (Goodbye Big Kahuna)
STEFANIW. – Paul. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Senior Constable Stefaniw and extend their deepest sympathy to his family. At Rest
STEFANIW. – Paul. L/S/C 25440 Members of the Kingston CIU would like to pass on our deepest sympathies to Peter and members of the Stefaniw family on the loss of a respected member of the Victoria Police.
STEFANIW. – Paul. The Office of the Assistant Commissioner of the Road Policing Command is deeply saddened by the loss of leading Senior Constable Paul Stefaniw. The Road Policing Command send their condolences to Paul’s family and friends.
STEFANIW. – Paul Taras. Leading Senior Constable 25440 The Chief Commissioner, Officers and Employees of the Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
