1

Anthony WOODS

Anthony WOODS

AKA  Tony WOODS  

* Nickname: Fumbles, Woodsy

Late of  ? 

 

Relations in ‘the job’:

“possible” relation in ‘the job‘:    ?

 

Police Training Centre – Western Australia  Class #  ? ? ? 

 

Western Australia Police Force

 

Regd. #  17631

 

Rank: Commenced Training as a Cadet at W.A. Police Academy on Monday ? ? 2019

Probationary Constable- appointed ? ? 2022

Constable – appointed ? ? ?

 

Final Rank: = Constable

 

Stations?, Belmont ( December 2022 – 12 June 2023 ) – Death

  

Service: From  ? ? 2021    to   12 June 2023  ?   years,  Service

 

Retirement / Leaving age:?

Time in Retirement from Police?

 

Awards:  National Medal – granted ? ? ?

1st Clasp to National Medal – granted ? ? ?

2nd Clasp to National Medal – granted ? ? ?

Anthony WOODS AKA  Tony WOODS

 

 Born:   ? ? 1994

Died on:  Sunday 11 June 2023

Age:  28 years,

Organ Donor:  Y / N / ?

 

Cause:  MURDERED – Ran over with vehicle

Event location:       Ascot Pce, Ascot ( Perth ), Western Australia

Event date:   Thursday 8 June 2023 @ 1am

 

Funeral date:  Thursday 6 July 2023

Funeral location:  Optus Stadium, Perth, Western Australia

LIVE STREAM – YES  ?

 

 

Wake location???

Wake date???

 

 

Funeral ParlourBowra & O’Dea Funeral Directors, W.A.  08 92315199

 

Buried at: Cremated at Karrakatta Cemetery, Railway Rd, Karrakatta, W.A.

Grave LocationSection:          Row?         Plot?

Grave GPS?,       ?

 

Memorial / Plaque / Monument located at?

Dedication date of Memorial / Plaque / Monument: Nil – at this time ( June 2023 )

 

ANTHONY is  mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance  * BUT WILL BE ( 2023 )

ANTHONY will be mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance, W.A. ( 2023 )


 

FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal


 

May they forever Rest In Peace

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AustralianPolice.com.au/ 

 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/NSWFallenPolice/ 

Australian Police YouTube Channel


Partial Funeral Service:

https://youtu.be/lmQgT2a_Dlw


Anthony WOODS - Floral tribute

The POS accused of fatally running over a young police officer has admitted stealing and driving the car but denies murdering the constable, a court has heard.
Reagan Ainslie Chown, 23, faced Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court in Perth on Wednesday ( 21 Feb. 2024 ) where he pleaded guilty to driving recklessly to escape police during a pursuit in a stolen Holden Cruze.
But he pleaded not guilty to murdering Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was allegedly struck with the car in Ascot on June 8 last year.
The officer and his colleague had pulled over the vehicle and they were trying to detain three occupants when Constable Woods was allegedly dragged underneath as the car reversed.
Constable Woods was rushed to hospital in a critical condition and died on June 11.
He became the 88th WA Police officer to lose his life in the line of duty.
Constable Woods had only been on the force for about three years and had just passed his probation when he died.
He was farewelled at Optus Stadium on July 7.
In a statement after his death, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered.
“He was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.
“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard-working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.
“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.
“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.
“We ask that you keep Anthony’s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”
Police Commissioner Col Blanch said the young officer had been trying to keep the community safe.
“It was the sort of interaction that any of our officers may encounter any given day or night of the year, reminding us of the ever-present dangers facing police officers,” he said.
Constable Woods’ name has been added to memorial wall at the WA Police Academy in Joondalup, facing the flame of remembrance.
Chown will next face the WA Supreme Court on June 10.

Mandatory Sentence For People Who Kill Police Officers

22 Feb 2024

Let me introduce myself
I’m Natalie Woods, Anthony’ Woods  mother.
He’s died tragically while on duty in June 11.
This Is the hardest time ever for my self and my family
Although the days are hard we are so proud of him
We are doing a fundraiser Bibbulmun Track walk for anyone who’s keen.
This in in November 2024 and would love your support in anyway .
Police legacy are organising this event
Anyone who’s keen please pm me
Also looking for sponsors
More details to come and thank you
Natalie Woods

 

In Memoriam

IN MEMORIAM Constable Anthony Woods, Western Australia Police Force

 

Constable Anthony Woods succumbed to injuries suffered in the line of duty, while attending an incident in early June, in Ascot, Perth, Western Australia.

Three weeks previously, he had welcomed PolicingTV Founder, Bernard Rix, to Belmont Police Station in Perth, where they recorded this video intended to give PolicingTV viewers a detailed look behind the scenes.

Constable Woods’ family has asked that PolicingTV publish this video – today, the day of Anthony’s funeral – in his memory.

A personal statement by PolicingTV Founder, Bernard Rix:

It is with great sadness that I heard of the recent death, whilst on duty, of Western Australia Police Force’s Constable Anthony Woods.

Just last month, Anthony was chosen by the Force to provide me and PolicingTV with a guided tour of Belmont Police Station, in Perth. It was my great pleasure to film with him: he was a natural communicator, wonderfully friendly and engaging. I left Belmont that day having made a new friend, as well as with some wonderful film and memories.

My heart goes out to Anthony’s family, friends and policing colleagues. I may have met Anthony just the once, but his warmth that day made me feel I’d known him far longer. I hope this video helps bring back positive memories of a wonderful man: like so many others, I mourn his loss.

Full video

IN MEMORIAM Constable Anthony Woods, Western Australia Police Force – Policing TV


Thousands gather for funeral of police officer Anthony Woods in Perth

Thousands have gathered to honour Constable Anthony Woods after he was killed in the line of duty.

A West Australian police officer killed on duty is being laid to rest as his loved ones remember a larger-than-life character full of fun and joy.

A police funeral was held Thursday for Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was allegedly run over by a man attempting to avoid arrest in June.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Loved ones mourn Perth officer Anthony Woods.

About 2000 officers and dignitaries stood in silence on Thursday as a bagpiper led the procession into a function room at Optus Stadium in Perth.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, WA Governor Chris Dawson, Police Commissioner Col Blanch and WA Premier Roger Cook were among the guests.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who paid tribute to Woods in a statement as a “young man cruelly robbed of his future”, was represented by local Labor MP Zaneta Mascarenhas.

Police chaplain Paul Trimble paid tribute to the “larger-than-life” character who was full of fun and joy, but always treated others with respect.

A firm but fair officer, he died doing what he loved best.

The service concluded with a police honour guard. Credit: 7NEWS
The service concluded with a police honour guard. Credit: 7NEWS

“Anthony was in his element and wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else in that moment,” Timble told the service.

The chaplain spoke of a man who Woods had previously arrested leaving a condolence card at the station when he attended to sign in for his bail conditions, describing the officer as “a gentleman”.

In a poignant tribute, Woods’ wife Emily said she was “proud” and “so grateful for you”.

“Your love made me really strong and I’ll carry that with me every minute of every day,” she said

Woods’ older brother Nathan paid an emotional tribute, promising to live life to the fullest in his sibling’s honour.

“I’ll do my best to pick up where you left off. You’ve left a legacy and a massive imprint on this world,” he said.

“I love you bro and always will … until next time, mate.”

Anthony Woods’ wife Emily said she was ‘proud’ and ‘so grateful’ to have known the fallen officer. Credit: 7NEWS
Anthony Woods’ wife Emily said she was ‘proud’ and ‘so grateful’ to have known the fallen officer. Credit: 7NEWS

The service concluded with a police honour guard.

A few dozen members of the public gathered in gloomy weather to watch a livestream of proceedings outside the stadium.

Albanese said all Australians joined the officer’s family in mourning.

“He was a young man cruelly robbed of his future … an Australian who went to work and never came home,” he said.

“Like all police officers, Constable Woods knew the risks his job entailed, yet he bravely performed his duties, putting himself in harm’s way so others could be safe.”

Albanese said the hearts of all Australians went out to Woods’ wife, Emily, and his family.

“We grieve with his friends, his workmates and the broader police community, whose every member feels each loss so very deeply,” he said.

Earlier on Thursday, WA Police shared footage of Woods filmed just a month before his death.

The video was captured in May as part of a tour of Belmont Police Station as part of a series for PolicingTV.com.

“The selected footage demonstrates his professional, friendly and enthusiastic approach to the job he loved,” WA Police said.

Woods had just passed his probation with the force before he was killed, having volunteered at the PCYC before joining the police cadets in 2019 and moving into the recruit squad in 2021.

Emily has previously remembered him as a devoted husband and loving son, brother and uncle “who was taken from this Earth far too soon”.

“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates,” she said in a statement.

“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.”

Woods’ family was shattered by his death.

“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community,” the family said in a statement.

“We ask that you keep Anthony’s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”

Blanch said Woods was a brave and dedicated police officer and it was a sad time for the “blue family”.

“You did your duty mate, we will remember,” he said at a press conference to announce the death.

WA Police headquarters was turned blue in honour of the officer, while flags were flown at half-mast in the wake of the officer’s death. Credit: 7NEWS
WA Police headquarters was turned blue in honour of the officer, while flags were flown at half-mast in the wake of the officer’s death. Credit: 7NEWS

Flags flew at half-mast at police stations across the state soon after, and Const Woods was honoured in federal parliament as someone who exemplified the values of the force.

Reagan Ainsley Chown, 23, has been charged with Woods’ murder after a vehicle with stolen number plates that he was allegedly driving hit and dragged the young officer underneath.

Chown is scheduled to next appear in court on August 30.

Thousands gather for funeral of police officer Anthony Woods in Perth | 7NEWS

 


‘Infectious smile’: Funeral held for fallen WA cop Anthony Woods

The wife of a police officer killed while on duty has recounted the day they cried “happy tears” when he was accepted as a police cadet.

 

Hundreds of police officers and dignitaries from all branches of emergency services have filed into Perth’s Optus Stadium for the funeral of Constable Anthony Woods.

The 28-year-old died in hospital on June 11, four days after he was allegedly run down and dragged by a car during an early morning vehicle stop in the inner-east Perth suburb of Ascot.

Mourners braved a chilly, overcast Perth morning as they waited to be let into the private service on Thursday, the facade of Optus Stadium illuminated in blue lights.

Anthony WOODS. The coffin of Constable Woods leaving the service in an honour guard. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith
The coffin of Constable Woods leaving the service in an honour guard. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith

 

Although the forecast called for a high chance of rain, it graciously held off as uniformed officers, some donning their full dress uniform, entered the stadium.

Police commissioners from across the nation were in attendance.

Queensland Police Service also paid tribute to the fallen constable on social media.

“Today, we are thinking of our (WA Police) colleagues as they farewell Constable Woods. With Honour He Served,” it posted on Twitter on Thursday morning.

Members of the public gathered outside the stadium to watch the service on a big screen. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith
Members of the public gathered outside the stadium to watch the service on a big screen. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith

 

Even Anthony Albanese posted a tribute to Constable Woods ahead of the service.

“Like all police officers, Constable Woods knew the risks the job entailed, yet he bravely performed his duties, putting himself in harm’s way so others could be safe,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.

Representatives from the Australian Defence Force and St John Ambulance also headed inside as invited guests, joined by family and friends of the late Constable Woods.

Outside, members of the public gathered to watch the service in the BHP Amphitheatre, which features a large screen normally used for broadcasting whatever sporting event is taking place inside the venue at the time.

Those in attendance included WA Governor, former police commissioner, Chris Dawson, Police Commissioner Col Blanch, Premier Roger Cook and his Police Minister Paul Papalia, and Federal Opposition Leader and former Queensland police officer Peter Dutton.

Mr Albanese was represented by member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas, while WA’s National and Liberal parties were represented by Shane Love and Peter Collier respectively.

 

Eulogies during the service were delivered by Constable Woods’ brother Nathan, his mother Natalie, wife Emily, childhood mates, and colleagues from the Belmont Police Station, where the constable had been posted since December.

Nathan said his brother should have been the one speaking “in the limelight, in his element, making you smile”.

Constable Woods’ “infectious smile,” as his mother described it, continued to pop up in the eulogies.

“You may now have been able to live the longest life, but you lived a full one,” Nathan said.

Adolescent friends Max and Jacob fondly remembered their mate, known to them by his nickname “Fumbles”.

“He is someone who deserve better, and I’ll miss him every day,” Max said.

Constable Woods’ coffin being taken from the room ahead of his final trip to Karrakatta Cemetery. Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian/ Pool image

 

Belmont Police Station colleagues Shaun and James touched on “Woodsy’s” less-than-perfect driving ability and elicited laughs from the audience when they told of the time he accidentally “tasered the floor”.

But they also praised the quality of his police work.

Mum Natalie said in death her son “has been given angel wings and a golden heart”.

But perhaps most touching was the eulogy given by Constable Woods’ wife Emily.

“You cried all through our wedding vows while I was dry-eyed and professional, so I think it’s only fair that it’s my turn to cry in public,” she said.

She told the story of how they received the news Constable Woods had been accepted in the police cadet program while out grocery shopping and had held each other and cried happy tears in the middle of the store.

“We spent 95 per cent of the day doubled over in laughter, loving each other and planning our future,” Ms Woods said.

“Nothing in the world will replace the comfort and love you gave me.”

Emily Woods embraces WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch, alongside WA Governor and Mr Blanch’s predecessor, Chris Dawson. Picture: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian/ Pool image

 

The service ended with the hundreds of police officers gathered forming an honour guard outside the stadium, where Mr Blanch radioed every officer statewide, calling on them to stand if they were able to have a minute’s silence for their fallen colleague.

Those driving were ordered to pull over, activate their emergency lights, and leave their vehicles for the minute.

Constable Woods’ body was taken to Karrakatta Cemetery, where he will be cremated.

The hearse was followed by mounted police units and bagpipe players as it made its way around the stadium. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sharon Smith

The funeral comes just a day after the man allegedly responsible for running down Constable Woods, Reagan Chown, fronted Perth’s Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court.

The 23-year-old appeared on a charge of murder, upgraded in the wake of Constable Woods’ death.

Mr Chown’s was adjourned until August 30 when he’ll appear on all charges relating to the alleged incident.

Police say Mr Chown was behind the wheel of a car that bore stolen number plates when it was pulled over by Constable Woods and his partner about 1am on June 8.

As the officers tried to apprehend three people in the vehicle, Mr Chown allegedly reversed over Constable Woods and dragged him some distance, causing him catastrophic injuries.

Other officers arrived and they had to lift the vehicle off Constable Woods and perform CPR until paramedics arrived.

Nathan Woods said his brother lived a full life. Picture: Andrew Ritchie/The West Australian

Mr Chown is the first person to be charged over the alleged killing of a WA police officer in the line of duty in 16 years since Constable Damien Murphy was run down by an unlicensed driver in 2007.

His killer was later jailed on a charge of manslaughter.

Constable Woods is the 88th WA Police officer to die in the line of duty.

Funeral held for fallen WA cop Anthony Woods | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site


 

Anthony WOODS AKA  Tony WOODS


WA Police officer Constable Anthony Woods dies in hospital after allegedly being run over during arrest

A man accused of killing a police officer has now had his charges upgraded, after thousands mourn the young constable with a “cheeky grin”.

A man who allegedly ran over and killed a West Australian police officer is now facing a murder charge.

Constable Anthony Woods, 28, died in hospital on Sunday night, four days after he was allegedly dragged under a car in Ascot in east Perth during an arrest.

WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch said the man in custody over the incident, Reagan Ainsley Chown, would have his charges upgraded.

On Tuesday, police revealed the 23-year-old had officially been charged with murder.

Mr Chown initially appeared in court on Friday and made no application for bail on a number of charges, including causing grievous bodily harm while trying to avoid arrest.

He appeared in court again on Tuesday via videolink from Hakea Prison on the murder charge. He did not apply for bail and will appear in Stirling Gardens Magistrate in July.

Flags were flown at half mast outside the WA Police headquarters and at police stations across WA on Monday.

WA Police officer Anthony Woods (left) with wife Emily
WA Police officer Anthony Woods (left) with wife Emily

WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch revealed on Monday that Constable Woods had just finished his probation prior to the tragic incident.

He described the young officer as someone who liked to joke with friends and colleagues at Belmont police station.

“We spoke about his cheeky grin and the pranks that he pulled,” Mr Blanch said.

“He had a bubbly personality, he was very personable, he was well loved by all.

“Anthony was a brave and dedicated police officer. You did your duty mate. We will remember.”

Mr Blanch said a full police funeral would be offered to Constable Woods’ family, who shared a tribute to the late officer on Monday.

In a statement, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered by the loss of their “dear Anthony”.

“He (Mr Woods) was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.

“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.

“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.

“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.

“We ask that you keep Anthony‘s memory alive by telling stories of all of your good times with him.”

On Sunday, WA Police said in a statement: “Constable Anthony Woods exemplified the values of the WA Police Force.

“His is memory will be forever etched in our hearts.

“We extend heartfelt condolences to Anthony’s family, colleagues and all those who knew and loved him.”

Constable Woods and his partners were following a vehicle with allegedly stolen plates about 1am on Thursday.

The vehicle came to a stop on Ascot Place before police approached the vehicle and the three people inside.

It is alleged the car suddenly reversed while police were dealing with the driver.

“He (Constable Woods) has subsequently been pinned by that vehicle,” Mr Blanch said.

“His partner then had a desperate few minutes to not only put three suspects into custody inside that vehicle but also try to save the life of his partner.”

Other officers arrived soon after and rushed to assist.

Police used a nearby resident’s car-jack to lift the car off Constable Woods before performing CPR.

Constable Woods was resuscitated before being rushed to hospital soon after in a critical condition.

Constable Woodsdeath marks the 88th police officer in the state to die in the line of duty.

WA Premier Roger Cook took to social media to share his condolences to the force.

Deputy Commissioner Col Blanch - WAPol
Deputy Commissioner Col Blanch said the car suddenly reversed while police were dealing with the driver.

“I am devastated by the horrific events that occurred last week resulting in the death of one of our police officers,” Mr Cook said.

“Actions like these are senseless – and going to work should be safe.

“I know I speak on behalf of everyone in WA, in sending our love and thoughts to Anthony’s family, friends and colleagues. His life was dedicated to making our state a safer place for West Australians.

“He is to be commended on his dedication and bravery.”

Perth Mayor Basil Zempilas said on Sunday the Council House would be lit blue to honour Constable Woods.

“We remember his bravery and mourn his loss,” Mr Zempilas said.

“Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

“Our city has lost a hero.”

City of Gosnells councillor and former police officer Glenn Dewhurst also paid his respects.

“Even though I have been out of the force for some time, it still hits home when one of your own loses their life,” he said.

“God bless you – your family and friends and your colleagues past and present.”

Police said the vehicle’s other two occupants, a 20-year-old woman and 25-year-old man, had been released pending further investigation.

Constable Anthony Woods dies after allegedly being run over during arrest in Perth | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site


Accused cop killer in court one day before Constable Anthony Woods’ funeral

The man accused of fatally running down a police officer made a brief appearance in court just a day before his alleged victim is farewelled.

 

The man accused of fatally running down a West Australian police officer has briefly appeared in court the day before his alleged victim is farewelled in a massive service.

Constable Anthony Woods will be honoured in a private funeral service at Optus Stadium on Thursday, expected to be attended by thousands of his fellow officers.

The 28-year-old’s life support was switched off four days after suffering catastrophic injuries after allegedly being backed over and dragged by a car he and his partner had stopped in the inner-eastern Perth suburb of Ascot in the early hours of June 8.

The man allegedly behind the wheel of the vehicle, Reagan Ainsley Chown, had his case briefly heard in Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old appeared via video link from Hakea Prison in his first appearance in Stirling Gardens following appearances in Perth Magistrates Court, where he had his charges upgraded to murder.

He’s also facing a number of drugs charges as well as reckless driving to escape pursuit by police and driver of a vehicle failed to comply with a direction to stop (circumstance of aggravation), which also relate to the June 8 incident.

His matter was adjourned to August 30 when all of his charges, including the count of murder, will be heard together.

During the fatal incident, Constable Woods and his partner had been trying to detain three people in the stopped vehicle, which allegedly bore stolen number plates, when it allegedly reversed and struck Constable Woods.

Other officers arrived and had to lift the car off the critically injured constable, performing CPR until paramedics arrived.

WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch previously spoke about visiting Constable Woods’ colleagues at Belmont Police Station in the days following his death.

“We spoke about his cheeky grin and the pranks that he pulled,” Mr Blanch said.

“He had a bubbly personality, he was very personable, he was well loved by all.

“Anthony was a brave and dedicated police officer. You did your duty mate. We will remember.”

In a statement following his death, Constable Woods’ family said they were shattered by the loss of their “dear Anthony”.

“He (Mr Woods) was a devoted husband and loving son, brother, and uncle who was taken from this earth far too soon,” they said.

“Anthony will be remembered as a funny, hard working man who loved the West Coast Eagles and mucking around with his mates.

“He brought light and laughter to every situation, and his wicked sense of humour is irreplaceable.

“Our pain at this time is indescribable, and we take comfort in the outpouring of love from the community.”

Mr Chown is the first person to be charged over the alleged killing of a WA police officer in the line of duty in 16 years since Constable Damien Murphy was run down by an unlicensed driver in 2007.

His killer was later jailed on a charge of manslaughter.

Anthony Woods: Next step in accused cop-killer’s case | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site


 

* Story behind any Nickname:  Woodsy – stemming from the surname Woods.  Fumbles?


 

As of 16 February 2024, the offenders Court matter, involved in our Blue Brothers Murder, has still not been finalised.

 


 

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS

 

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?
Tony WOODS & ?

 

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS, Brooke WOODS, Nathan WOODS
Siblings: Anthony, Brooke & Nathan WOODS

 

?, Nathan WOODS, Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?
?, Nathan WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?

?, Nathan WOODS, Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?

Nathan WOODS, ?, Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS
Nathan WOODS, ?, Tony WOODS

 

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS
? & Tony WOODS

 

Anthony WOODS, Tony WOODS & ?
Tony WOODS & ?

 


 

Nothing further, than what is recorded above, is known about this person at the time of publication and further information and photos would be appreciated.

**********

 

Cal
7 July 2023

Updated 16 February 2024 with additional photo and offender update.

Updated 22 February 2024 with Court information.


 

 




Warren John MATHESON

Warren John MATHESON

Late of  Reynella, S.A.

South Australia Police Force

Regd. #  ?

Rank:  Constable

Stations:  Darlington, Glenelg & Christies Beach

ServiceFrom  20 June 1974  to  29 March 1982  = 7+ years Service

Awards:  No find on It’s An Honour

Born:  6 June 1957

Died on:  29 March 1982

Age:  24

Cause:  Motor Vehicle Collision – Driver – Urgent Duty

Event location:  Tapleys Hill Rd, Glenelg North

Funeral date:  1 April 1982

Funeral location:  Mt Gambier, S.A.

Buried at:  Carinya Gardens Cemetery, Mt Gambier

 Memorial located at?

 

Warren Matheson had two small children when he died. The mother ( Barbara ) of those two small children kept in close contact with the parents of Warren after his death and are still in contact to this day. Warrens, now adult children ( Brett, 38 & Hayley, 36 ) ( in 2017) and their mother ( Barbara ) travelled from Qld to Mt Gambier in November 2016 and visited the grave of Warren. Warren now has two grandsons, now aged 5 & 1. The memory of Warren is still alive and the family will never forget the loss.
Warren Matheson had two small children when he died. The mother ( Barbara ) of those two small children kept in close contact with the parents of Warren after his death and are still in contact to this day. Warrens, now adult children ( Brett, 38 & Hayley, 36 ) ( in 2017) and their mother ( Barbara ) travelled from Qld to Mt Gambier in November 2016 and visited the grave of Warren. Warren now has two grandsons, now aged 5 & 1. The memory of Warren is still alive and the family will never forget the loss.

 

Warren Mathesons' now adult children ( Hayley, 36 & Brett, 38 ) ( as of 2017) as seen in November 2016 with Warrens' two grandsons, now aged 5 & 1.
Warren Mathesons’ now adult children ( Hayley, 36 & Brett, 38 ) ( as of 2017) as seen in November 2016 with Warrens’ two grandsons, now aged 5 & 1.

 

This photo is Warrens parents Ian and Maureen Matheson ( seated ) with the family celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary November 2016.
This photo is Warrens parents Ian and Maureen Matheson ( seated ) with the family celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary November 2016.

 

Certificate of Service
Certificate of Service

 

[alert_green]WARREN is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]

 

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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal

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May they forever Rest In Peace

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March 29, 1982 | Two young constables, Warren John Matheson, 24, and Matthew John Payne, 22, died after the vehicle they were pursuing through Adelaide’s south-western suburbs swerved into their police car. Police subsequently charged the driver of the pursed vehicle with a number of very serious driving offences.
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29 September, 2010

Police honour their comrades

Community members joined Limestone Coast police at a ceremony at the Mt Gambier Police Station on Thursday for the National Police Remembrance Day.

The presence of riderless horse at a ceremony at the Mt Gambier Police Station on Thursday was a time-honoured way of paying respects to the fallen.

Such gestures have been hallmarks of military and State funerals since the nineteenth century.

Local officers arranged for the riderless horse with boots reversed in its stirrups to be part of the annual religious ceremony to mark National Police Remembrance Day.

The 16-year-old grey horse called “Limelight” was formerly a part of the South Australian Police Mounted Cadre.

In retirement, “Limelight” was brought to Mt Gambier by its former rider Senior Constable Stephanie Cooper.

After nine years with the Mounted Cadre, Senior Constable Cooper is now on general police duties in Mt Gambier.

She rode another horse “Star of Courage” to the ceremony while “Limelight” was led to it by Constable Barb Bushell.

The two horses stood guard while community members and police honoured those who had given their lives in the line of duty.

The wreath layers at the 45 minute ceremony included local resident Maureen Matheson.

She laid a floral tribute in memory of her eldest son, Warren John Matheson, who was killed while on police duty in Adelaide in 1982.

At the time of his death, he was a 24-year-old married father with an infant son and daughter.

He was laid to rest in the Carinya Gardens Cemetery in Mount Gambier.

Mrs Matheson said another young officer from this region was killed in the same motor vehicle collision which claimed the life of her son.

“He was 22-year-old Constable Matthew Payne, of Rendelsham.

“Matthew was not supposed to be on traffic duties with Warren on this day but his regular partner could not make this shift.

“Matthew is buried at Rendelsham.

“I have been coming to these annual ceremonies for several years.

“One has been held at Warren’s grave while another took place at the Rendelsham cemetery.

“In recent years, we have been holding the ceremony here at Mt Gambier,” said Mrs Matheson.

The other wreath layers were representatives of the Limestone Coast Police Local Service Area, SA Police Legacy, Mt Gambier City Council, District Council of Grant, MFS, SA Ambulance Service and the Rotary Club of Mt Gambier West.

A wreath was also placed on Constable Payne’s grave later in the day by Sergeant Richard Murphy, of the SA Police Legacy.

The master of ceremonies in Mt Gambier was Sergeant Andy Stott while the prayers were led by Police Chaplain and Mt Gambier Anglican parish priest, the Reverend Canon Brian Ashworth.

http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2010/09/29/3025054.htm

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Matthew John PAYNE

Matthew John PAYNE

Late of  Rendelsham

South Australia Police Force

Regd. #  ?

 

Rank:  Constable

Stations?

ServiceFrom  ?  ?  ?  to  29 March 1982 = ? years Service

Awards:  No find on It’s An Honour

Born: ? ? ?

Died on:  29 March 1982

Age:  22

Cause:  Motor Vehicle Collision – Drive – Urgent Duty

Event location:  Tapleys Hill Rd, Glenelg North

Funeral date? ? ?

Funeral location?

Buried at:  Rendelsham – near Millicent

 Memorial located at?

MATTHEW is mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance

 


 

FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.

PLEASE SEND PHOTOS AND INFORMATION TO Cal


May they forever Rest In Peace


March 29, 1982 | Two young constables, Warren John Matheson, 24, and Matthew John Payne, 22, died after a vehicle they were pursuing through Adelaide’s south-western suburbs swerved into their police car. Police subsequently charged the driver of the pursed vehicle with a number of very serious driving offences.

29 September, 2010

Police honour their comrades

Community members joined Limestone Coast police at a ceremony at the Mt Gambier Police Station on Thursday for the National Police Remembrance Day.

The presence of riderless horse at a ceremony at the Mt Gambier Police Station on Thursday was a time-honoured way of paying respects to the fallen.

Such gestures have been hallmarks of military and State funerals since the nineteenth century.

Local officers arranged for the riderless horse with boots reversed in its stirrups to be part of the annual religious ceremony to mark National Police Remembrance Day.

The 16-year-old grey horse called “Limelight” was formerly a part of the South Australian Police Mounted Cadre.

In retirement, “Limelight” was brought to Mt Gambier by its former rider Senior Constable Stephanie Cooper.

After nine years with the Mounted Cadre, Senior Constable Cooper is now on general police duties in Mt Gambier.

She rode another horse “Star of Courage” to the ceremony while “Limelight” was led to it by Constable Barb Bushell.

The two horses stood guard while community members and police honoured those who had given their lives in the line of duty.

The wreath layers at the 45 minute ceremony included local resident Maureen Matheson.

She laid a floral tribute in memory of her eldest son, Warren John Matheson, who was killed while on police duty in Adelaide in 1982.

At the time of his death, he was a 24-year-old married father with an infant son and daughter.

He was laid to rest in the Carinya Gardens Cemetery in Mount Gambier.

Mrs Matheson said another young officer from this region was killed in the same motor vehicle collision which claimed the life of her son.

“He was 22-year-old Constable Matthew Payne, of Rendelsham.

“Matthew was not supposed to be on traffic duties with Warren on this day but his regular partner could not make this shift.

“Matthew is buried at Rendelsham.

“I have been coming to these annual ceremonies for several years.

“One has been held at Warren’s grave while another took place at the Rendelsham cemetery.

“In recent years, we have been holding the ceremony here at Mt Gambier,” said Mrs Matheson.

The other wreath layers were representatives of the Limestone Coast Police Local Service Area, SA Police Legacy, Mt Gambier City Council, District Council of Grant, MFS, SA Ambulance Service and the Rotary Club of Mt Gambier West.

A wreath was also placed on Constable Payne’s grave later in the day by Sergeant Richard Murphy, of the SA Police Legacy.

The master of ceremonies in Mt Gambier was Sergeant Andy Stott while the prayers were led by Police Chaplain and Mt Gambier Anglican parish priest, the Reverend Canon Brian Ashworth.

http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2010/09/29/3025054.htm


 

 




Peter Allen FIGTREE

Peter Allen FIGTREE

AKA  ?
Late of ?
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 199B
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 21207
Rank:  Commenced Training – Monday  28 November 1983
Probationary Constable – appointed 24 February 1984
Constable – appointed 24 February 1985
Constable 1st Class – appointed  ? ? ?
Service:  From 28 November 1983 to 13 June 1989 = 5+ years Service
Stations?, Ballina HWP
Awards:  No find on It’s An Honour
Born:  Friday  23 October 1964
Died:  Tuesday  13 June 1989
Age:  24
Cause:  Motor vehicle accident – passenger – Urgent Duty – Pursuit of SMV
Wardell, NSW
Funeral date?
Funeral location?, Lismore
Grave location:  Buried at Lismore ( Goonellabah ) Lawn Cemetery –
Portion: G Section: 53 Lot: 41
Grave GPS:    Lat:  -28.8333333   Long: 153.3238888888889
28 50′ 00S / 153 19′ 26E

DOUBLE POLICE FATALITY

 [alert_green]Peter IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green]

SenCon Glenn Rampling ( 1989 )
SenCon Glenn Rampling ( 1989 )

Constable Peter Figtree ( 1989 )
Constable Peter Figtree ( 1989 )

About 11.25pm on 13 June, 1989 police in Byron Bay commenced a high speed pursuit of a panel van. The pursued vehicle drove south in the Coast Road, followed by the Byron Bay Police vehicle, and into Ballina. As both vehicles continued south through Ballina, a local Highway Patrol vehicle driven by Constable 1st Class Beaver, with Senior Constable Rampling and Constable 1st Class Figtree as passengers, joined the pursuit. More police vehicles arrived to assist as the pursuit continued through the township of Wardell. About five kilometres south of Wardell the Ballina Highway Patrol vehicle began to draw level with the offending vehicle. As it did so, the driver of the pursued vehicle drove across to the centre of the roadway and clipped the front of the Byron Bay Police car. As a result, the police vehicle veered across the road and skidded in loose gravel before colliding with a power pole.

 

All three police were trapped for some time in the badly damaged police car and when freed were conveyed by ambulance to the Lismore Base Hospital. Constable Beaver recovered from internal injuries received, however Constable Figtree died before he reached hospital and Senior Constable Rampling died a short time later.

 

 

Senior Constable Rampling was born in 1959 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 15 January, 1979. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Detectives.

 

Constable Figtree was born in 1964 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 28 November, 1983. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Highway Patrol.

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Peter Allen FIGTREE grave plaque
Peter Allen FIGTREE grave plaque

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Deadly toll

By Jonathan Pearlman
November 6, 2004

Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.

Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.

The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.

Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.

Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.

“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”

Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”

But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.

Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:

April 2, 1937: Constable George Boore;

June 2, 1954: Constable Cecil Sewell;

November 14, 1958: Constable Brian Boaden;

December 23, 1958: Constable William Lord;

October 14, 1961: Constable James Kinnane;

September 7, 1963: Constable Colin Robb;

December 2, 1976: Constable Terry Moncur;

January 3, 1985: Constable Wayne Rixon;

July 25, 1985: Detective-Constable Steven Tier;

October 20, 1987: Constable Themelis Macarounas;

August 24, 1988: Constable Peter Carter;

June 13, 1989: Constable Peter Figtree;

June 14, 1989: Senior Constable Glenn Rampling;

January 14, 2001: Senior Constable James Affleck;

April 13, 2002: Senior Constable Christopher Thornton.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/Police-Pursuits/Deadly-toll/2004/11/05/1099547386960.html

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June 2019

Gezza J Kt Believe it or not, I was working the radio comms for this at Lismore station that night. Called the whole thing & did all the post crash co-ord. A horrible night shift with Sgt GJ Menzies, S/C Mark Burridge, Const’s Jordan, Gahan & Me.
*****
June 2019

30 year memorial – Senior Constable Glenn RamplingConstable First Class Peter Figtree – A memorial service will be held at the Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Parade, Ballina on Thursday, 13 June 2019 at 1000hr to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the death of Senior Constable Glenn Donald Rampling and Constable 1st Class Peter Allen Figtree.

Senior Constable Rampling was tragically killed on duty on 14 June 1989 and Constable 1st Class Figtree was tragically killed on duty on 13 June 1989, both as a result of motor vehicle collision at Wardell, south of Ballina.

*****

 

Glenn Taylor

Attended this morning quite a moving 30 year memorial service for Glenn Rampling and Peter Figtree killed in a car chase near Ballina. May they rest in peace.

 

Peter Allen FIGTREE
Photo by: Glenn Taylor

 

Peter Allen FIGTREE
Photo by: Glenn Taylor

 


 

Peter FIGTREE. Rear ( L - R ) C. HICKMAN, R.B. GIBBS, P.G. HANSEN, P.A. FIGTREE ( R.I.P. ), S.G. HAWES, I. HELDT, R.J. GREGORY, M. LANDRIGAN, A.F. LONGFront: P.M. KELLY, W. EYKMAN, W.B. GIBSON, K. KEEGAN, K.A. GUDGEON, S.A. HAYWOOD, C.W. GLYNN, M.S. LINGWOOD
Photo from: Geoff Lowe Peter FIGTREE back row, 4th from left. Redfern Police Academy Class 199B

 

Peter Allen FIGTREE
Photo by: Ken Medway

 


 

 

 

 




Christopher John THORNTON

Christopher John THORNTON

aka  Thorno

possible” relative(s) in “the job”:  ?

Goulburn Police Academy Class # 228

New South Wales Police Force

ProCst # 98719

Regd. # 24117

 

Rank:  Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Monday ? June 1987

Probationary Constable – appointed Friday 7 August 1987 ( aged 21 years, 3 months, 10 days )

Constable – appointed 7 August 1988

Senior Constable – death

 

Stations? Brisbane Waters GD’s ( 5 years ), Woy Woy HWP, Brisbane Waters HWP from 1989 ( Gosford )

 

ServiceFrom ? June 1987  to  13 April 2002 = 15 years Service

 

AwardsNo find on It’s An Honour

 

Born:  Thursday 28 April 1966

Died:  Saturday  13 April 2002

Cause:  Motor Vehicle Accident – Driver

Location:  Hillview St & Nambucca Drive, Woy Woy

Age:  35 years, 11 months, 16 days

 

Funeral date:  Friday  19 April 2002

Funeral location:  Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral

 

Buried site:  Palmdale Lawn Cemetery, 57 Palmdale Rd, Palmdale, NSW

Serenity Lawn, Sec: R99  Site: 11

Find A Grave: memorial ID: 135167623

 

Monument Location1/  Third Floor of Gosford Police Station.

2/  Hillview St & Nambucca Dve, Woy Woy ( Stainless steel cross )

 

Chris Thornton
Chris Thornton

Barry and Freada Thornton with their son Chris at his graduation in 1987
Barry and Freada Thornton with their son Chris at his graduation in 1987

 

Touch plate for Chris Thornton at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
Touch plate for Chris Thornton at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.

 

About 6.10pm on 13 April, 2002 the senior constable was driving a Highway Patrol vehicle in Hillview Street, Woy Woy. When the vehicle reached the intersection of Nambucca Drive, it collided with another vehicle before leaving the roadway and hitting a power pole. Senior Constable Thornton sustained extensive injuries and died at the scene of the accident.

 

The constable was born in 1966 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 7 August, 1987. At the time of his death he was attached to the Brisbane Water Highway Patrol.

Christopher IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance


 

 Location of collision

 


 

The cross we made for you and put in still looks as beautiful today as when we first placed it. I will always miss you my brother from another mother. I will miss sharing our birthdays together and miss your stupid sense of humor, love you always "Plod". Miss you forever! X
The cross we made for you and put in still looks as beautiful today as when we first placed it. I will always miss you my brother from another mother.  I will miss sharing our birthdays together and miss your stupid sense of humor, love you always “Plod”.  Miss you forever! X  Sim McCarthy – NSW Fallen Police FB Group. 19 April 2017

 


In April 2002, Senior Constable Chris Thornton was involved in a pursuit of a speeding motorist when his vehicle was struck by another vehicle that failed to stop. Thornton died as a result of the injuries received when his vehicle collided with a pole. The offending vehicle was located and the driver arrested and charged.

http://unionsafe.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/NileInquirySubmission.doc


Policeman who paid ultimate price

April 20 2002

 

Lean on me ... grieving colleagues comfort each other. Photo: Liam Driver
Lean on me … grieving colleagues comfort each other. Photo: Liam Driver

Police officers were again united in grief yesterday in mourning one of their own for the second time in less than two weeks.

Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral was a sea of blue as hundreds of officers remembered Senior Constable Chris Thornton, 35, killed when his patrol car crashed into a power pole in Woy Woy last Saturday.

After the service, police lined both sides of the road to form a guard of honour as hundreds more, including acting Commissioner Ken Moroney, marched to the sombre beat of a drum.

A 56-year-old man has been charged in relation to the incident, which has rocked the force just weeks after Constable Glenn McEnallay was shot dead in a car chase in Sydney.

Many officers at yesterday’s service had donned their dress uniforms on April 9 for Constable McEnallay‘s funeral.

The Police Minister, Michael Costa, was at yesterday’s service, slipping quietly in and out of the cathedral, almost unnoticed among the crowd of more than 1000.

Mr Moroney used the occasion to call for public support.

“While nothing can make up for his passing, the heartfelt reaction of the communities Chris grew up in, then later served, will mean his death was not in vain,” Mr Moroney said.

“It has also made people realise the extraordinary work our police do in creating a safer society.”

His words were echoed by the Anglican Dean of Newcastle, the Very Rev Graeme Lawrence, who called on society to renew its respect for members of the police.

“In some ways that word is an old-fashioned concept, but one we would do well to revive,” he said.

“As a person and a police officer, Chris earned that respect, admiration and affection.”

Senior Constable Thornton‘s partner of six years, Sarah Matthews, stood alongside Dean Lawrence in the street as the hearse moved slowly away to the beat of the drum.

Earlier she had wept as close friend John Kinney told the gathering how “Thorno” had paid the ultimate price of police service.

“He swerved to miss another vehicle and chose to risk himself for another person, paying the ultimate price for his courage and honour,” Mr Kinney said.

“To me that is Christopher John Thornton, my mate, a man anyone would be proud to say they knew.”

The Newcastle Herald

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/04/19/1019020708933.html


 

Constable’s death was devastating

North metropolitan region police commander, assistant commissioner Bob Waites, has described the death of senior constable Chris Thornton on April 13 as “devastating”.

“His death has had a dramatic effect on his colleagues, more so, because he was one of the first people to offer help to workmates after hours, and also at work,” assistant commissioner Waites said.

“I had the pleasure and honour of knowing Chris personally.

“He was a person who loved to have a good time, while also having a lot of common sense,” he said.

Senior Constable Thornton, who lived with his partner of six years, Sarah, attended the Police College at Goulburn in 1987.

Since his graduation that same year, Senior Constable Thornton had worked within the Brisbane Water Command, initially as a general duties officer, before joining highway patrol in 1989.

Ten of his 15 years as a policeman were spent working as a highway patrol officer.

Senior Constable Thornton was travelling north along Hillview St in Woy Woy about 6.10pm on Saturday, April 13, when the marked vehicle he was driving crashed into a power pole.

The 35-year-old police officer died at the scene as a result of his injuries.

A 56-year-old man, Leonard Allan Rowley, has been charged with several driving offences in connection with the accident.

Commissioner Peter Ryan and Deputy Commissioner Operations Dave Madden attended the scene on the night of the accident.

The pole on Hillview St where Senior Constable Thornton was killed.
The pole on Hillview St where Senior Constable Thornton was killed.

http://www.peninsulanews.info/2002/0423/default.aspx?item=Death


 

A-G urged to appeal against sentence

Posted

The New South Wales Opposition has called on the Attorney-General to override the Director of Public Prosecutions and launch an appeal against a sentence given to the driver of a car that hit and killed a highway patrol officer.

Leonard Allan Rowley walked free after receiving a two-year suspended sentence for an incident that claimed the life of Senior Constable Chris Thornton in his highway patrol car on Hillview Street in Woy Woy.

Opposition leader John Brogden says, given that Rowley had been drinking, was unlicensed and fled the scene, it is unacceptable that the DPP will not lodge an appeal.

The patrol officer’s widow Sarah Matthews says it is an insult and urges the Attorney-General to step in.

“It astounds me,” Ms Matthews said.

“This is a legal system that Chris believed in, he stood behind and he enforced every day and now it’s let him down.”

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2003-10-20/a-g-urged-to-appeal-against-sentence/1496008

 


 

Deadly toll

By Jonathan Pearlman
November 6, 2004

Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.

Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.

The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.

Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.

Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.

“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”

Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”

But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.

Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:

April 2, 1937: Constable George Boore;

June 2, 1954: Constable Cecil Sewell;

November 14, 1958: Constable Brian Boaden;

December 23, 1958: Constable William Lord;

October 14, 1961: Constable James Kinnane;

September 7, 1963: Constable Colin Robb;

December 2, 1976: Constable Terry Moncur;

January 3, 1985: Constable Wayne Rixon;

July 25, 1985: Detective-Constable Steven Tier;

October 20, 1987: Constable Themelis Macarounas;

August 24, 1988: Constable Peter Carter;

June 13, 1989: Constable Peter Figtree;

June 14, 1989: Senior Constable Glenn Rampling;

January 14, 2001: Senior Constable James Affleck;

April 13, 2002: Senior Constable Christopher Thornton.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/Police-Pursuits/Deadly-toll/2004/11/05/1099547386960.html


 

Cross removal is temporary. Energy Australia has temporarily relocated a memorial cross at Hillview St, Woy Woy, after replacing a power polie earlier last week. The memorial cross was in remembrance of Senior Constable Chris Thornton, who lost his life in a car accident in 2002. An Energy Australia spokesperson said the cross had to be temporarily removed so the new police to be place in the correct position. Energy Australia spoke with the local police, who consulted the family of the deceased police officer, before the cross was temporarily relocated, the spokesperson said. The cross has been temporarily located nearby and will be returned closer to its original position near the police within three weeks. Clare Graham, 17 August 2007.
Peninsula News, page 5
20 August 2007


 

Hearts go out to family of fallen officer

FREADA and Barry Thornton’s hearts skipped a beat when they heard about the death of young detective Will Crews.

It may be nearly nine years since their son Chris Thornton was killed on duty, but the Blackalls Park couple said it still felt like yesterday.

“You learn to try and get on with your life, you have to,” Mrs Thornton said yesterday.

“But it is a shock.

“Another one, another young life. So, so young.”

Mrs Thornton said her heart went out to Senior Constable Crews’s family as they attempt to deal with the loss.

“We know what it is like and we know it took us four or five years before we could get ourselves going again,” she said.

“We just couldn’t do anything for years, it gutted us.”
See your ad here

Senior Constable Thornton was in pursuit at Woy Woy on April 13, 2002, when his vehicle hit a power pole, killing him.

The Thorntons will attend another police remembrance day at the end of this month, like they have done every year since that day. The honour roll read out at the Christ Church Cathedral service will contain another name this year.

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/460097/hearts-go-out-to-family-of-fallen-officer/#slide=1


 

‘Our boys haven’t been forgotten’: Policemen honoured in Brisbane Water row

September 15, 2015 3:16pm

(L-R) Sarah Matthews, Kylie Kerr and Tracey Holt remember their police officer partners at Gosford waterfront. Brisbane Water LAC officers will be taking to the water in honour of the policemen.
(L-R) Sarah Matthews, Kylie Kerr and Tracey Holt remember their police officer partners at Gosford waterfront. Brisbane Water LAC officers will be taking to the water in honour of the policemen.

When Sarah Matthews returned home after her shift at Gosford Hospital on the evening of April 13, 2002 and spotted a row of waiting police cars she thought the neighbours were having a noisy party.

“It never struck me what was coming next,” remembers the emergency nurse who was told the worst — her fiancé Senior-Constable Chris Thornton had been killed on duty hours earlier.

“It didn’t hit me. Even when I was told. I don’t think that’s something that ever leaves you.”

This week Miss Matthews, Kylie Kerr and Tracey Holt will get together to remember their partners, Sen-Constable Thornton, Sen-Constable Peter Gordon Wilson and Sergeant Richard Whittaker, who all died on duty while with the Brisbane Water Local Area Command.

(L-R) Brisbane Water Inspector Paul Nicholls, Tracey Holt, Brisbane Water Commander Daniel Sullivan, Sarah Matthews and Kylie Kerr at Gosford Waterfront ahead of the NSW Police Legacy row. Picture: Mark Scott
(L-R) Brisbane Water Inspector Paul Nicholls, Tracey Holt, Brisbane Water Commander Daniel Sullivan, Sarah Matthews and Kylie Kerr at Gosford Waterfront ahead of the NSW Police Legacy row. Picture: Mark Scott

On Thursday officers from Brisbane Water LAC will take part in a paddle to raise money for NSW Police Legacy to support the families of fallen officers.

“You never want to be a part of Legacy but now we are part of this unique group and without Legacy we wouldn’t have each other,” Miss Matthews said.

But for two of the women, the close bond was forged by their shared loss and haunting similarities in how their partners lost their lives.

Sen-Constable Thornton, 35, died in a motor vehicle accident while on patrol in Woy Woy in 2002, while Mrs Kerr’s long-term partner Sen-Constable Wilson, 41, was killed when he was hit by a car while carrying out speed checks on the M1 at Somersby in 2006.

Both men were based at Brisbane Water LAC, both died in car accidents on a Saturday night, and both had the same patrol car number — 202.

Senior Constable Peter Gordon Wilson with fiance Kylie Kerr.
Senior Constable Peter Gordon Wilson with fiancé Kylie Kerr.

“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”

Senior Constable Chris Thornton was killed on duty during a high-speed pursuit at Woy Woy in 2002.
Senior Constable Chris Thornton was killed on duty during a high-speed pursuit at Woy Woy in 2002.

“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”

“This special event means our boys haven’t been forgotten,” Miss Matthews said, adding that the support of Legacy has enabled her to move on. “You have to take that step forward. You can’t be angry, because that just eats away at you.”

Mrs Holt, whose husband Sgt Whittaker was stationed at the Gosford drug unit and was involved in drug investigations at the time of his death when he died from a brain haemorrhage in 1991, said the annual paddle is a “beautiful day”. “It is amazing the effort Daniel Sullivan and the team put in to keep the memory going of old work mates and have a good time doing it,” she said.

Sergeant Richard Whittaker who died on duty with Brisbane Water Local Area Command in 1991. Picture: Supplied
Sergeant Richard Whittaker who died on duty with Brisbane Water Local Area Command in 1991. Picture: Supplied

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/central-coast/our-boys-havent-been-forgotten-policemen-honoured-in-brisbane-water-row/story-fngr8h0p-1227528821582



Celeste Thornton March 12, 2020:     Would like to get message to any colleges of Snr Const Chris Thornton who was killed on duty in 2002.   Would like to let them know my parents and I are burying his older brother Leslie on Mon 16th March 2020 at Lake Macquarie memorial park 10am.


 

 




Glenn Edward McENALLAY

Glenn Edward McENALLAY  VA

aka Glenn McENALLAY

New South Wales Police Force

Goulburn Police Academy Class # 270

Regd. #  31940

Rank:  Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Monday 19 May 1997 with Class # 270 ( aged 21 years, 2 months, 9 days )

Probationary Constable – appointed Friday 14 November 1997 ( aged 21 years, 8 months, 4 days )

Constable – appointed ? ? ?

Constable 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?

 

Final Rank:  Constable 1st Class

 

Stations:  Manning / Great Lakes ( ProCst ), Mascot ( GDs ), City East Transits, City East Highway Patrol – Mascot – Death

Service:  From  14 November 1997  to  3 April 2002 = 4 years, 10 months, 15 days Service

Age:  26 years, 0 months, 24 days

Time in Retirement:  0

Awards:  posthumously awarded the Commissioner’s Valour

Born:  Wednesday 10 March 1976

Incident Date:  Wednesday 27 March 2002

Incident location:  Grace Campbell Crescent, Hillside, NSW

Died on:  Wednesday 3 April, 2002

Cause:  Shot ( 3 times ) – Murdered

Age:  26 years, 0 months, 24 days

Funeral date:  Tuesday 9 April 2002

Funeral location:  St Johns Anglican Church, Taree, NSW

Buried at:  Tuncurry Cemetery, Manning St, Tuncurry, NSW

Garden Heath, Plot 120

 

 

GPS Lat & Long:  -32.165380   152.494973

Approximate location of murder

Memorial 1:  Sparks Reserve, Sparks St, Mascot, NSW

Memorial 2:  Mascot Police Station, 965 Botany Rd, Mascot, NSW

 

 

Constable Glenn Edward McEnallay
Glenn Edward McENALLAY

Senior Constable Glenn McEnallay on right taken about 2 weeks before his death. Photo courtesy of Noel Kessel.
Senior Constable Glenn McEnallay on right taken about 2 weeks before his death. Photo courtesy of Noel Kessel.

 


 

HWP vehicle 211 with the personalised memorial number plates for Glenn Edward McEnallay.
HWP vehicle 211 with the personalised memorial number plates for Glenn Edward McEnallay.  GEM211
About 5.30pm on 27 March, 2002 the constable was driving an unmarked Highway Patrol vehicle when he began to follow a stolen vehicle. In Denison Street, Hillsdale the vehicle sped off and Constable McEnallay informed VKG of the pursuit. The stolen vehicle turned into Grace Campbell Crescent and stopped. As the police vehicle came to a halt near the stolen vehicle four offenders alighted from it and fired a number of shots at the constable from a distance of about three metres. Constable McEnallay was hit in the right side of the head and right shoulder. Other police arrived at the scene and two offenders were arrested. Constable McEnallay died of his wounds on 3 April, 2002. He was posthumously awarded the Commissioner’s Valour Award.

NSW Police Commissioner's Valour Award

The constable was born in 1976 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 14 November, 1997.   At the time of his death was attached to the City East Highway Patrol.

Location of Grave:  Portion.  Garden He, Row 120

Tuncurry Cemetery, Manning St, Tuncurry

In loving memory of Glenn Edward McEnallay. 10 March 1976 - 3 April 2002. Died in the execution of his duty. Much loved son, brother & fiance of Judy, Bob, Troy & Amanda. Forever in our hearts. Grave plate for Glenn Edward McENALLAY

 


Glenn McEnallay


From Helen L’ford via NSW Fallen Police FB Group:
Today ( 3 April 2022 ) …friends, family, colleagues past and present, current and former Senior offices, The Mayor for Bayside Council as well as community members came together to remember Senior Constable Glenn McEnallay who was murdered in the line of duty 20 years ago.
I didn’t know this young man, but I walk past his memorial in Sparks Reserve each day and see his memorial at Mascot Police Station when I walk into work each morning
The story of Glenn is in the below link – RIP

Glenn McENALLAY
Memorial dedication – Twenty Years on – 2022

Glenn McENALLAY

Glenn McENALLAY
Glenn McENALLAY
Glenn McENALLAY
Glenn McENALLAY
Glenn McENALLAY

Daily Telegraph Online wrote:
Parole hearing for cop killer Motekiai Taufahema
A MAN involved in the murder of Sydney policeman Glenn McEnallay was today refused parole.

Motekiai Taufahema, 35, is serving 11 years jail after being found guilty of Senior Constable McEnally’s manslaughter.

His bid for freedom was today rejected by the State Parole Authority.

He was one of four men convicted for the shooting murder of Constable McEnallay ten years ago.

The State Parole Authority said today they believed Taufahema has not addressed his offending behaviour and his release is not supported by the Serious Offenders Review Council (SORC).

His seven year non-parole period ended last month.

“The offender needs to be reduced in classification before progress and judgment … It is not appropriate for SPA to consider the offender for release on parole.”

Commissioner Ron Woodham opposed Taufahema’s release, saying it was not in the public interest and he had not addressed his offending behaviour.

Taufahema, found not guilty of the murder of Senior Constable McEnallay but guilty of manslaughter, was sentenced to 11 years prison.

Motekiai’s brother, John, also found not guilty of the murder of Senior Constable McEnallay but guilty of manslaughter, was last month refused parole and will not be eligible again until 2014. His full sentence is also 11 years with a non-parole period of seven years.

The Authority last month also refused parole for co-offender Meli Lagi at a private meeting. He will not be eligible for parole again until next year.

Lagi, 32, who was found not guilty of the murder of Senior Constable McEnallay but guilty of firearms offences, was sentenced to almost 13 years prison with a non-parole period of almost nine years, which expired on 2 April 2011.

The fourth co-offender, 32-year-old Sione Penisini, is serving a total sentence of 36 years and won’t be eligible for parole until 2029.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/s … 6338503645


Court allows police killer to stay for daughter’s sake

ONE of the men jailed for manslaughter over the death of Senior Constable Glenn McEnallay has escaped deportation to Tonga even though he has spent more than half of his 21 years in Australia in prison.

The best interests of Motekiai Taufahema’s seven-year-old daughter, born after he was jailed, tipped the balance in his favour when he appealed against the cancellation of his visa. But his childless brother, Sione, 31, also convicted of McEnallay‘s manslaughter, will be sent back to the country he left aged nine.

A victims’ group says the decisions perversely reward criminals who become parents, while refugee advocates say they show the unfairness of the Migration Act’s ”character test”.

Although Motekiai Taufahema, 33, had spent 12 of 21 years here behind bars, the deputy president of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Robin Handley, found his daughter ”loves her father and misses him” and would be devastated if he were deported.

Combined with evidence of his rehabilitation, including a non-violent response to being stabbed 10 times by a fellow prisoner, it earned him ”one last chance”.

Mr Handley rejected Sione Taufahema’s appeal on the same day, saying the high risk of him re-offending outweighed other factors. Noting that he has spent almost 10 of his 21 years here in prison, Mr Handley accepted the Federal Government’s argument that the community would expect to be protected against his violent criminal behaviour.

Asked about Sione Taufahema’s imminent arrival, a Tongan Government spokesman said in an email, ”No comment.”

The Taufahema brothers were both on parole for a brutal bashing when stopped with four stolen guns in Hillsdale in 2002. Their accomplice, Sione Penisini, shot McEnallay four times.

Both brothers were sentenced to 11 years jail after pleading guilty to manslaughter – a result McEnallay‘s father, Bob, called a ”bloody disgrace”.

Sione Taufahema‘s deportation adds to a turbulent few years for the Taufahema family. Two of his siblings, Honora and Filisione, are also in jail. Another, 18-year-old Tavita, was shot dead by police in September during an armed hold-up at the Canley Heights Hotel. Last year 16-year-old Chris Emmerson was shot dead by a visitor at the family’s Yennora home.

The father, Maunaloa Taufahema, said he was happy for Motekiai’s daughter but disappointed for Sione, whom he considered Australian, not Tongan.

”He has spent a lot of his life in Australia, and to me his behaviour was based on the Australian environment,” he said.

Both brothers have spent only a week or two in Tonga since they left as children and their close families have since moved to Australia and New Zealand.

Robyn Cotterell-Jones, from the Victims of Crime Assistance League, said both brothers should be deported as a deterrent. ”I imagine victims would feel it’s wrong that if you’re arrested for murder but you get somebody pregnant you will be able to stay here rather than be deported.”

Dr Michael Grewcock, an expert on the character test from the University of NSW, said it seemed bizarre to deport one brother and not another: ”There’s just a general lack of consistency, which is built into the process.”





James AFFLECK

James AFFLECKVA

aka  Jim,   Jamie to his family

New South Wales Police Force

Police Academy Class 160

ProCst Regd. #  92373

Regd. # 18315

Rank:  Commenced training at Redfern Police Academy on Monday 3 July 1978 ( Aged 20 years, 11 months, 24 days )

Probationary Constable – appointed 18 September 1978 ( Aged 21 years, 2 months, 9 days )

Constable 1st Class – appointed 29 August 1984

Senior Constable – appointed 29 August 1988

Final Rank:  Senior Constable

ServiceFrom 3 July 1978 to 14 January 2001 = 22 years, 6 months, 11 days Service

Stations?, Hurstville HWP, Campbelltown HWP – Death

Awards:  National Medal – granted 2 February 1995

Born Tuesday  9 July 1957

Died:  Sunday  14 January 2001

Age:  43 yrs  6 mths  5 days

Cause:  Murdered – by Motor Vehicle whilst using Road Spikes to stop a stolen vehicle which drove straight at, and collided with, him.

Location:  Hume Hwy ( north bound ), Glen Alpine

Funeral date:   Thursday  18 January 2001

Funeral location:  Camden Civic Centre

Grave:  Cremated

Grave site:  Interred in Woronora Cemetery on 3 June 2003

General Plaque Lawn.  Lawn 4  Position 0796

Memorial 1/:  Jim Affleck Bridge, Hume Hwy, Glen Alpine, NSW

Memorial 2/:  HWP Vehicle ( 213 ) attached to Campbelltown – Registration JA-213  213 was the Call Sign of his HWP Vehicle.

 

Jim AFFLECK
Jim AFFLECK

 

Jim Affleck 213, JA 213, JA213
2022

 

James AFFLECK, Jim AFFLECK, JA-213, JA213
JA-213 NSW Registration – in Memory of Jim Affleck

 

Jim AFFLECK, James AFFLECK. Senior Constable James AFFLECK. Glen Alpine, New South Wales, 14 January 2001

 

About 8.40am on 14 January, 2001 police were attempting to stop a stolen vehicle during a high speed pursuit at Mittagong. Approval was given to place road spikes on the roadway and Senior Constable Affleck and other police did this near the Mark Evans Bridge, Glen Alpine. When the offending vehicle, travelling north, reached the spikes the driver intentionally swerved from one side of the north bound laned road to the other, hitting the senior constable, who was killed instantly. The driver was later arrested and charged with murder.

 

The senior constable was born in 1957 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 18 September, 1978. At the time of his death he was attached to the Campbelltown Highway Patrol.

 

Jim IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance


 

On the 14th of January 2001, Senior Constable Jim Affleck VA was hit and killed by a vehicle trying to evade police during a police pursuit on the Hume Highway, Glen Alpine.
To celebrate his life and remember his sacrifice 20 years on, there will be a memorial service and wreath laying held at Campbelltown Police Station at 8:30am on Thursday the 14th January 2021. This will be followed by a light morning tea.
An invitation has been extended to Jim’s friends, family and colleagues to attend.

 


 

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/competitions/campbelltown-mourns-13th-anniversary-of-police-officers-death/story-fngy6zd2-1226802284880

Campbelltown mourns 13th anniversary of police officer’s death

Police and Jim Affleck’s family share hugs and fond memories of the late Jim Affleck. Picture: ROBERT POZO Source: News Limited

A photo of Jim Affleck sat atop his car at a memorial service yesterday. Picture: ROBERT POZO

A photo of Jim Affleck sat atop his car at a memorial service yesterday. Picture: ROBERT POZO Source: News Limited



 

 

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/05/13/1021002431568.html

Driver who ran down officer ‘was re-enacting computer game’

By Ellen Connolly
May 14 2002

 

The scene of Senior Constable Affleck’s death. Photo: Nick Moir

The driver of a stolen car who killed a highway patrol officer during a police chase was re-enacting one of his PlayStation computer games, The Need for Speed – Hot Pursuit, the Supreme Court heard yesterday.

Trevor Edward Holton, 26, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Senior Constable Jim Affleck, 43, near Campbelltown on January 14 last year.

In his opening address yesterday, the Crown prosecutor, Mark Tedeschi, QC, said that during the pursuit Holton was ”testing his car rallying skills” and was ”engaged in a real life re-enactment of the computer game”.

”To him the lives of other road users and the lives of police officers were just there as props to provide the thrill of the chase, and they were expendable in the pursuit of that thrill. Jim Affleck’s death was just part of this real-life game.”

The court was told the chase began about 8.30am after another man, who was a passenger in the four-wheel-drive, committed a bag snatch at Moss Vale. Also in the car was the man’s four-year-old stepdaughter.

For the next 40 minutes police chased the stolen vehicle as it drove on the wrong side of the road along the M5 freeway and the old Hume Highway, reaching speeds of up to 180kmh.

At one stage the passenger got out of the car and tried to take the girl with him but Holton sped off with her.

Senior Constable Affleck tried to stop the vehicle by throwing road spikes across the M5 but Holton swerved across two lanes to miss the spikes and hit the officer, Mr Tedeschi said. His body landed 80 metres away.

The stolen vehicle somersaulted and landed on its roof, with the girl, uninjured, still in the back. Holton fled but was arrested that night.

In a police interview Holton had said he ”was not prepared, at any stage, to get pulled over or stop”. He had seen Senior Constable Affleck running across the road in front of him trying to get the spikes under the vehicle.

”I couldn’t swerve; I couldn’t dodge him. I was going too fast. It’s like he [Affleck] didn’t care what happened.

”To me it was like it was suicide. He could see how fast I was going. He could see I could not stop.

”I have just been so angry … he could have avoided me so easy.”

He had said he knew about road spikes from playing the computer game, in which the main method of avoiding spikes is to veer off the road onto a median strip or the grass.

The trial continues.


 

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/08/23/1030052974371.html

Fury at killer’s ‘lenient’ jail term

By Ellen Connolly
August 24 2002


The state Opposition has called for compulsory life terms to be imposed on anyone who kills a police officer, after the “lenient” sentencing of a man who ran down a highway patrol officer.

Trevor Edward Holton, 27, was jailed yesterday for a minimum 12 years for the murder of Senior Constable Jim Affleck, killed while laying road spikes during a high-speed pursuit in western Sydney on January 14 last year.

In handing down sentence in the Supreme Court, Acting Justice Thomas Davidson said the jail term had to deter others and demonstrate that such acts against police in the execution of their duty would not be supported by the courts.

But the shadow attorney-general, Chris Hartcher, said this was not reflected in the sentence and called on the judicial system to stand behind police officers.

“Mr Holton should go to jail for the rest of his natural life. He certainly would if the coalition was in office,” Mr Hartcher said.

The Attorney-General, Bob Debus, said he had sought advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions on prospects for an appeal. “Understandably, there is considerable community concern about the sentence imposed,” Mr Debus said.

The court heard Holton was re-enacting one of his PlayStation computer games and was testing his car rally skills during the 40-minute pursuit.

Constable Affleck’s distraught family said it was “extremely disappointed” at the sentence and wanted harsher terms imposed on anyone convicted of murdering a police officer.

“If someone is prepared to kill a police officer they’re prepared to kill anybody, and I think they should have a sentence which is much stronger for police,” the victim’s brother, Paul Affleck, said outside court. “They’re out there doing their job, protecting us, and it should be reflected in the sentencing. Mr Carr’s talking about minimum sentences all the time.”

Inspector Hans Rupp, who led the investigation, said: “Trish has lost a good husband, his work colleagues have lost a great mate and, unfortunately for NSW, we’ve lost a great policeman. You just can’t replace police of the calibre of Jim Affleck.”

Holton was sentenced to a maximum 16 years.


 

 

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/11/01/1067597201712.html?from=storyrhs

Outrage at police killer’s mercy bid

By Sean Berry
November 2, 2003


The family of murdered policeman Jim Affleck has described his killer’s attempt to appeal against a 12-year jail sentence as “an outrage”.

A year after Trevor Edward Holton was sentenced to serve a minimum of 12 years (maximum of 16) in jail for the highway patrol officer’s murder, he has initiated an appeal against the severity of the sentence in the Court of Criminal Appeal.

Holton, of Claymore, south-west Sydney, was sentenced in August after he ran down and killed Affleck in January 2001.

He hit Affleck with a stolen four-wheel-drive when he swerved to avoid road spikes the policeman was laying across the M5 Freeway at Campbelltown.

Delivering the sentence in the Supreme Court, Acting Judge Thomas Davidson said the jail term needed to act as a deterrent and demonstrate that such acts against police in the execution of their duty would not be tolerated.

However, the Department of Public Prosecutions has since lodged an appeal against the leniency of the sentence, with a hearing due next month.

The Crown’s stance is in contrast to Holton’s planned appeal against the harshness of the same sentence.

“If he does [appeal], it may well be that the Crown appeal in December will be vacated,” a court spokesman said. “The court likes to deal with these things as one.”

Any appeal against the severity flies in the face of the outrage that greeted the sentencing last year.

“We thought he deserved more,” the victim’s brother, Paul Affleck, said. “Before the sentencing we sat down with [then police minister] Michael Costa. He gave us an idea of what they were looking at for minimum sentences and more stringent sentencing.

“It has now been 12 months since the sentencing and nothing has been done. How many more policemen have to die before someone does something?”

NSW shadow attorney-general Andrew Tink said he had a simple approach to the matter.

“Anyone who kills a police officer while they are carrying out their duties should go to jail for life,” he said. “That is our strong stance.”

Mr Affleck said Holton’s bid to reduce his sentence was not a surprise, just unfortunate.

“We have been expecting that all along, just the way the defence was talking after the trial,” he said.

“Anyone who kills a policeman should spend his life in jail – he had a criminal record going back until he was 13 or something.

“I think it’s ridiculous and I don’t know why we tolerate these things. I just think it’s ridiculous he has the opportunity to [appeal].

“I think anyone who kills anyone doesn’t deserve any freedom.”


 

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/06/30/1088488031043.html?from=storylhs

Police killer spared more time in jail

By Les Kennedy
July 1, 2004

A policeman who died after being run over by a fleeing car thief should have shot his killer “between the eyes”, his widow says.

The widow of Senior Constable Jim Affleck was speaking yesterday after a court rejected the Crown’s appeal against the leniency of the sentence given to the man who ran him down.

Trish Affleck compared the situation her husband was in when he was killed by Trevor Edward Holton to that faced by another policeman, Inspector Shane Cribb, who has been charged over the shooting of a criminal who drove a getaway car at him three years ago.

“You have got Inspector Cribb looking down the barrel of a jail term for doing what I wish to God Jim had done. I wish to God he would have shot Holton between the eyes,” Mrs Affleck said with tears in her eyes.

The NSW Court of Appeal, in a 2-1 decision, yesterday rejected the Crown’s argument for a tougher sentence for Holton, who was jailed in August 2002 for a minimum of 12 years, and a maximum 16, for the murder of Senior Constable Affleck.

On January 14, 2001, the stolen four-wheel-drive Holton was driving hit Senior Constable Affleck, a highway patrolman, as he laid out road spikes on M5 to stop the vehicle. Holton was being pursued by police after committing a robbery.

Holton also appealed against his conviction, but that was unanimously dismissed by justices Michael Grove, Robert Hulme and Rex Smart yesterday.


 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kdm_94N7bJA   YouTube:

Published on Sep 14, 2012

Wall To Wall Ride 2012 – M5 Motorway South of Sydney. Slowing down in tribute to Jim Affleck, crossing the bridge named in his honour. Polair was hovering above filming, but because I didn’t check my vertical camera angle, I missed it!

 

 

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151824341491135&set=a.10150274302951135.329251.51121891134&type=1


ix. JAMES AFFLECK

In January 2001 Senior Constable Jim Affleck was a Highway Patrol Officer who was run over a killed whilst deploying a set of ‘road spikes’ during a high speed police pursuit. The offending driver actually drove his vehicle at Affleck in a deliberate attempt to run him down. He was subsequently charged with murder.


Deadly toll

By Jonathan Pearlman
November 6, 2004

Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.

Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.

The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.

Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.

Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.

“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”

Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”

But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.

Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:

April 2, 1937: Constable George Boore;

June 2, 1954: Constable Cecil Sewell;

November 14, 1958: Constable Brian Boaden;

December 23, 1958: Constable William Lord;

October 14, 1961: Constable James Kinnane;

September 7, 1963: Constable Colin Robb;

December 2, 1976: Constable Terry Moncur;

January 3, 1985: Constable Wayne Rixon;

July 25, 1985: Detective-Constable Steven Tier;

October 20, 1987: Constable Themelis Macarounas;

August 24, 1988: Constable Peter Carter;

June 13, 1989: Constable Peter Figtree;

June 14, 1989: Senior Constable Glenn Rampling;

January 14, 2001: Senior Constable James Affleck;

April 13, 2002: Senior Constable Christopher Thornton.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/Police-Pursuits/Deadly-toll/2004/11/05/1099547386960.html


 




Glenn Donald RAMPLING

Glenn Donald RAMPLING

AKA RAMPO
Late of ?
NSW Redfern Police Academy Class # 162
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. #  18596
Rank:  Commenced Training at the Academy – Monday  15 January 1979
Probationary Constable – appointed 2 April 1979
Senior Constable – appointed 2 May 1988
Service:  From 15 January 1979 to 13 June 1989 = 10+ years Service
Stations:  Mounted Police Unit, Brewarrina, Ballina Detectives
Awards:  No find on It’s An Honour
Born:  Saturday  5 September 1959
Died:  Wednesday  14 June 1989
Age:  29
Cause:  Motor vehicle accident – Passenger – Urgent Duty – Pursuit of SMV
Wardell, NSW
Funeral date?
Funeral location?, Ballina
Grave location:  East Ballina Cemetery
Plot:  RC C 5 Grave 15
GPS:  28*51’43″S / 153*35’28″E
-28.8619   153.5911

DOUBLE POLICE FATALITY

[alert_green]Glenn IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_green] 

SenCon Glenn Rampling ( 1989 )
SenCon Glenn Rampling ( 1989 )

Constable Peter Figtree ( 1989 )
Constable Peter Figtree ( 1989 )

About 11.25pm on 13 June, 1989 police in Byron Bay commenced a high speed pursuit of a panel van. The pursued vehicle drove south in the Coast Road, followed by the Byron Bay Police vehicle, and into Ballina. As both vehicles continued south through Ballina, a local Highway Patrol vehicle driven by Constable 1st Class P. Beaver ( # 20992 ), with Senior Constable Rampling and Constable 1st Class Figtree as passengers, joined the pursuit. More police vehicles arrived to assist as the pursuit continued through the township of Wardell. About five kilometres south of Wardell the Ballina Highway Patrol vehicle began to draw level with the offending vehicle. As it did so, the driver of the pursued vehicle drove across to the centre of the roadway and clipped the front of the Byron Bay Police car. As a result, the police vehicle veered across the road and skidded in loose gravel before colliding with a power pole.
All three police were trapped for some time in the badly damaged police car and when freed were conveyed by ambulance to the Lismore Base Hospital. Constable Beaver recovered from internal injuries received, however Constable Figtree died before he reached hospital and Senior Constable Rampling died a short time later.

Senior Constable Rampling was born in 1959 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 15 January, 1979. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Detectives.
Constable Figtree was born in 1964 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 28 November, 1983. At the time of his death he was attached to the Ballina Highway Patrol.
Beyond CourageGlenn, whilst working with the Mounted Police Unit, would often work traffic duty on Anzac Pde, Kensington.  He is described as a Champion boxer ( Australian Police Boxing Champion ) & athlete, the funniest guy, a loyal mate & great husband & Dad.*****

Gezza J Kt Believe it or not, I was working the radio comms for this at Lismore station that night. Called the whole thing & did all the post crash co-ord. A horrible night shift with Sgt GJ Menzies, S/C Mark Burridge, Const’s Jordan, Gahan & Me.
*****

30 year memorial – Senior Constable Glenn RamplingConstable First Class Peter Figtree – A memorial service will be held at the Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Parade, Ballina on Thursday, 13 June 2019 at 1000hr to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the death of Senior Constable Glenn Donald Rampling and Constable 1st Class Peter Allen Figtree.

Senior Constable Rampling was tragically killed on duty on 14 June 1989 and Constable 1st Class Figtree was tragically killed on duty on 13 June 1989, both as a result of motor vehicle collision at Wardell, south of Ballina.

*****

 

Glenn Taylor

Attended this morning quite a moving 30 year memorial service for Glenn Rampling and Peter Figtree killed in a car chase near Ballina. May they rest in peace.

 

Glenn Donald RAMPLING & Peter Allen FIGTREE
Photo by: Glenn Taylor

 

Glenn Donald RAMPLING & Peter Allen FIGTREE
Photo by: Glenn Taylor

 

Glenn Donald RAMPLING
Photo from: Beyond Courage

 

Glenn Donald RAMPLING
Photo: Ken Medway – 2014

 


 

Both Wayne Rixon and Glenn Rampling formed part of a 3 man team at the Mounties, going around mainly to country fairs performing vault tricks with the draft horse. Tragically both lost their lives in High Speed pursuits after leaving the Mounties for other duties. RIP, both were good men.

 


 

 




Allan Wayne McQUEEN

Allan Wayne McQUEEN SC, VA

New South Wales Police

Goulburn Police Academy Class 227

Probationary # 98444

Regd. #  23???

Rank:   Constable

Stations:  Sydney District Anti Theft Squad

Service:   From pre 26 June 1987  to  5 May 1989 = 1+ years Service

Awards:  Star of Courage ( SC ) ( Posthumously )

Commissioners Valour Award ( VA ) ( Posthumously )

Born: Friday  1 June 1962

Died On:  Friday  5 May 1989

Event:  Shot – wounded – Murdered

Event location:  Woolloomooloo

Event Date:  24 April 1989

Died:  5 May 1989 ( 9 days after event )

Cause:  Murdered – shot twice

Age:  26 yrs  11 mths  4 days

Funeral date:  9 May 1989

Funeral locationSt Mary’s Anglican Church

Buried at:  Cremated.  East Ballina Cemetery, McQueen Family Wall, Sec: Niche, Lot # 2

GPS: 28*51’47″S / 153*35’26″E

Memorial: 1/ Yurong Parkway, Phillip Park , Sydney, 2000

GPS:  Lat: -33.872583 / Long: 151.213778

2/ Sydney Police Centre, McQueen Room, 151 – 241 Goulburn Street, Surry Hills.

3/  Police Launch McQueen???.

Allan McQUEEN

Allan McQueen

Allan's touch plate was polished today, this 27th anniversary, 5 May 2016, by a mate, Craig Coleman, at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.
Allan’s touch plate was polished today, this 27th anniversary, 5 May 2016, by a mate, Craig Coleman, at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra.

 

ALLAN IS mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance

On the morning of 24 April, 1989 Constable McQueen, Constable 1st Class Ross Judd and Probationary Constable Jason Donnelly were patrolling the Woolloomooloo area. All were members of the District Anti-Theft Squad. About 11.35am they saw the offender Porter, apparently attempting to break into a motor vehicle. While Constable Judd parked the police vehicle, Constables McQueen and Donnelly went to speak to the offender. As he was being detained, the offender produced a concealed weapon and shot Constable McQueen twice in the chest and Constable Donnelly in the abdomen. Both constables then chased the offender, who continued firing at them, until both collapsed from their wounds. Constable Ross Judd also pursued and fired at the offender before returning to assist his colleagues. He then carried both wounded constables to the police car and drove them to the Sydney Hospital.

Constable Donnelly was to recover from his wounds however Constable McQueen had sustained extensive internal injuries and died on 5 May, 1989. The offender was later arrested by Queensland Police.

The Canberra Times of 12 July, 1990 reported on the result of the trial of the offender.

CONVICTION IN POLICE DEATH
SYDNEY:John Albert Edward Porter has been found guilty of the murder last year of Sydney police constable Allan McQueen. A Supreme Court jury deliberated for nearly 10 hours before finding Porter, 28, guilty of shooting the policeman on April 24 last year. Porter was remanded in custody for sentencing on August 3. The jury also found Porter guilty on one count of shooting with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and three counts of shooting to avoid arrest. He was found not guilty on a sixth charge of attempting to murder Constable Jason Donnelly.

Justice Badgery-Parker had directed the jury to find Porter not guilty on the charge of attempting to murder Constable Donnelly. Porter had pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Friends and relatives of Constable McQueen sat comforting each other in the public gallery as the verdict was returned. Constable McQueen, 26, died in St Vincent’s Hospital nine days after the April 24 shooting.

The constable was born in 1962 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 27 June, 1987. At the time of his death he was attached to the Sydney District Anti-Theft Squad. He was posthumously awarded the Commissioner’s Medal for Valour and the Star of Courage.

[divider_dotted]

 

Allan McQUEEN


 

 

The Age 25 April 1989 p1 of 42
The Age      25 April 1989      p1 of 42


 

The Sydney Morning Herald 25 April 1989 p1 of 54
The Sydney Morning Herald      25 April 1989      p1 of 54


 

 The Sydney Morning Herald 26 April 1989 p5 of 62
The Sydney Morning Herald       26 April 1989      p5 of 62


 

The Sydney Morning Herald 27 April 1989 p2 of 119
The Sydney Morning Herald   27 April 1989   p2 of 119


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 30 April 1989 p2 of 109
The Sydney Morning Herald           30 April 1989       p2 of 109

https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1301&dat=19890430&id=4DRWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=0ecDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4933,9248506&hl=en


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 1 May 1989 p6 of 76
The Sydney Morning Herald      1 May 1989       p6 of 76


 

 

The Age 1 May 1989 p5 of 36
The Age      1 May 1989      p5 of 36


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 1 May 1989 p3 of 76
The Sydney Morning Herald     1 May 1989    p3 of 76


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 4 May 1989 p1 of 118

 

 

The Age 4 May 1989 p1 of 61
The Age       4 May 1989          p1 of 61


 

The Sydney Morning Herald 5 May 1989 p1 of 76
The Sydney Morning Herald     5 May 1989     p1 of 76


 

The Sydney Morning Herald 5 May 1989 p4 of 76
The Sydney Morning Herald      5 May 1989      p4 of 76


 

The Sydney Morning Herald 7 May 1989 p25 of 99
The Sydney Morning Herald     7 May 1989     p25 of 99


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 12 May 1989 p2 of 74                        The Sydney Morning Herald        12 May 1989     p2 of 74

https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1301&dat=19890512&id=rDJWAAAAIBAJ&sjid=nOcDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2205,1063653&hl=en


The Age 12 May 1989 p10 of 52
The Age            12 May 1989       p10 of 52


The Age 27 June 1989 P15 of 54
The Age               27 June 1989              P15 of 54


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 27 June 1989 p2 of 54
The Sydney Morning Herald 27 June 1989 p2 of 54


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 27 June 1989 p3 of 54
The Sydney Morning Herald                 27 June 1989                p3 of 54


 

 

The Sydney Morning Herald 19 July 1989 p6 of 72
The Sydney Morning Herald    19 July 1989    p6 of 72

 


NSW Police Academy, Goulburn HERO'S WALK
NSW Police Academy, Goulburn HERO’S WALK


Date: 24 August 1989. Memorial unveiled on corner of Haig Ave & Boomerang St, sydney.
Date: 24 August 1989. Memorial unveiled on corner of Haig Ave & Boomerang St, sydney.

 

November 2013

Constable Allan Wayne McQueen

Constable Allan Wayne McQueen : November 2013
Photographs supplied by Peter F Williams

Memorial erected in memory of Constable Allan James McQueen who was shot in the line of duty and died from his injuries on the 5th May 1989.

On the morning of 24 April 1989, Constable McQueen, Constable 1st Class Ross Judd (MV, BM ), and Probationary Constable Jason Donnelly (MV, BM ) were patrolling the Woolloomooloo area. All were members of the District Anti-Theft Squad. About 11.35am they saw the offender Porter apparently attempting to break into a motor vehicle. While Constable Judd parked the Police vehicle Constables McQueen and Donnelly went to speak to the offender. As he was being detained the offender produced a concealed weapon and shot Constable McQueen twice in the chest and Constable Donnelly in the abdomen. Both Constables then chased the offender who continued firing at them until both collapsed from their wounds. Constable Ross Judd also pursued and fired at the offender before returning to assist his colleagues. He then carried both wounded Constables to the Police car and drove them to the Sydney Hospital. Constable Donnelly was to recover from his wounds however Constable McQueen had sustained extensive internal injuries and died on 5 May 1989. The offender was later arrested by Queensland Police.

Front Inscription

IN MEMORY OF
CONSTABLE
ALLAN WAYNE McQUEEN S.C.,V.A.
AGED 26 YEARS

DIED 5TH MAY 1989 FROM
GUNSHOT WOUNDS RECEIVED
IN THE EXECUTION OF HIS
DUTY AT THIS LOCATION
ON THE 24TH APRIL 1989

Location

Address: Yurong Parkway, Phillip Park , Sydney, 2000
State: NSW
Area: AUS
GPS Coordinates: Lat: -33.872583
Long: 151.213778
Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate.

http://monumentaustralia.org.au/themes/people/crime/display/100949-constable-allan-wayne-mcqueen

 


 

 


 

The Sydney Morning Herald Wednesday, May 10, 1989

Moving tributes for police nice guy ‘Big Al”

By LINDSAY SIMPSON ” Chief Police Reporter As one of “Big Al’s” best mates read a moving eulogy, burly police officers, hats in hands, bowed their heads and cried. Big Al was Constable Allan Wayne McQueen, the well-mannered policeman from Kyogle who died in the line of duty, shot trying to apprehend a suspected car thief in Sydney.

Constable McQueen, who had been in the force two years, had been picked to work with the Anti-theft Squad a training ground for young officers on their way to becoming detectives. Big Al, who spent three years trying to become a police officer, was known by that name “not so much because of his height but because of his heart”, said Cheryl Coleman, whose husband had shared a house with Constable McQueen in Coffs Harbour.

As Senior Constable Steve Tedder, who gave one of the eulogies said, “Big Al had the basic love and desire to become a police officer”. In 1986, while running his own cleaning business in Coffs Harbour, he built his own house and several local police officers became his flatmates. At that stage he had five jobs and was studying at night for his HSC English in an attempt to become a police officer. About this time, before he was even in the force, he saved a man’s life. The man had quarrelled with his girlfriend outside a local night club and had head-butted a pane of glass. The glass had cut his throat and Al tore his shirt off and stemmed the flow of blood while waiting for the ambulance.

Big Al. who trained as a boxer and played Rugby League, was not always the muscle builder he was at the time he joined the force. His former Rugby League coach at Kyogle High School, Mr Stan McBride, said that in the 14-year-old competition he had been the second smallest kid in the group.

Ballina townspeople also came to the funeral service. One local, Mrs Val Studdert, said she had never met Allan McQueen but had come out of respect for what he had done. “If we don’t have law and order, we have nothing,” she said.

The pallbearers wore pistols. Perhaps that’s the way it has to be these days, but they touched the pretty white wooden church in the green countryside with vulgarity. They were big, strong young men and their bulky police uniforms made them bigger, so that when they came to the narrow church door carrying their mate’s coffin, they could barely squeeze through. In any case, the coffin seemed too narrow for a young man as big as Allan McQueen.

Nearly 300 police went to his funeral in Ballina yesterday along with his mother and father, Mr John and Mrs Shirley McQueen, and 300 family and friends. They spilled out of St Mary’s Anglican Church into a church hall, where the service was shown on video, and out of the hall on to the grass, where they listened through loudspeakers.

If we are to still violence, we must cherish life. Yesterday, 26-year-old Allan McQueen’s life was cherished. Today, others will cherish the life of 32-year-old David Gundy, the unarmed man killed in a police raid following Constable McQueen’s mortal wounding. Spring had sung in both men for only a while before life escaped them in violence. Senior Constable Graham White told the mourners that Allan McQueen had been a man of honour, love and integrity and a man whose word could be relied upon. He did not search for riches but for life itself, said Constable White. “Today he would be saying, ‘Let’s get on with it. Let’s not have all this fuss and bother’.”

Detective Senior Constable Steve Tedder said that the day McQueen received the letter of his acceptance into the force, “his face lit up as if Manhattan had lit up”.’ Constable Tedder lived with Constable McQueen in Manly and called his mate “Big Al”. “What a joy he was to live with,” he said. Constable McQueen had made more friends in 18 months in Manly than Constable Tedder had in 28 years.

Colleagues of slain policeman Allan McQueen weep as he is laid to rest in Ballina yesterday. One of his favourite expressions was: “Not a problem“. Another was: “I’m here for a good time, not a long time.” Constable Tedder said it was somehow appropriate that Allan McQueen began his long battle for life on April 24, the day before Anzac Day. That was the day Allan McQueen became a hero. Police Commissioner John Avery said Constable McQueen had exhibited the qualities of a police leader of the future. “His father said it was a waste of a fine young life, and I agree,” said the Commissioner. “His was an unforgettable example of courageous service that will enshrine his name in the annals of the history of NSW.” Mr Avery quoted Virgil: “Blessings on your young courage, boy, for that is the way to the stars.”

Outside the church, a senior policeman said: “There’s a finality to heroism.” Mr Athol McQueen, a cousin and the boxer who knocked down champion Joe Frazier in the 1964 Olympic Games, said: “I hope there are more young blokes around like him.”

” The police band played a funeral march for their colleague, past Sunnyhaven Flats. The open-faced country folk let the tears run down their cheeks. As the cortege passed a place called Camelot, on the way to the Lismore Crematorium and another place called Goonellabah, an old woman stood at the roadside and said : “Poor little fellow.” At the crematorium flowers spelled out the letters NSWP -New South Wales Police on the hillside.

A young policeman picked up a rose and handed it to a young woman. , ‘ Mr John McQueen wipes away a tear as he stands with his wife Shirley at their son’s funeral.

https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/123586879/


 

NSW Police Service Annual report 1989 / 1990
NSW Police Service Annual report 1989 / 1990

https://www.opengov.nsw.gov.au/viewer/e97f9949de7fce571e09f3baa392f1a4.pdf


 

 

 

 

 

 




Themelis Arthur MACAROUNAS

Themelis Arthur MACAROUNAS

aka  Tim MACAROUNAS

Maybe related to Lisa Macarounas – NSWPF # 44834

NSW Police Academy, Goulburn – Class # 225

New South Wales Police Force

Regd. # 23???

 

Rank:  Commenced Training at Goulburn Police Academy on Monday 5 January 1987 ( aged 21 years, 11 months, 8 days )

Probationary Constable – appointed Friday 27 March 1987 ( 22 years, 1 month, 27 days )

.

Final Rank:  Probationary Constable

.

Service:  From  5 January 1987  to  20 October 1987 = 9 months, 15 days Service

Age at Leaving NSWPF: 22 years, 8 months, 22 days

Time in Retirement:  Zero

.

Stations:  Paddington – Death

Event date: Monday 12 October 1987 about 3.35am

Event location:  Oxford St, near Oatley Rd, Paddington, NSW

.

Death date:  Tuesday 20 October 1987 @ 4pm in St Vincent’s Hospital

Born:  Thursday 28 January 1965

Age:  22 years, 8 months, 22 days

Cause of death:  Motor vehicle collision – Pursuit – Driver

.

Funeral date:  Friday 23 October 1987

Funeral location: ?

.

Buried at:  Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park, 12 Military Rd, Matraville, NSW

Grave Location: General FM 32, G32, Plot 1435

GPS of Grave????????????

Probationary Constable Themelis Arthur (Tim) MACAROUNAS
Probationary Constable Themelis Arthur (Tim) MACAROUNAS

 

Themelis Arthur MACAROUNAS aka Tim
Photo: From Beyond Courage FB Group

 

Touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra
Touch plate at the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra

 

Themelis Arthur MACAROUNAS, Tim MACAROUNAS

TIM IS Mentioned on the National Police Wall of Remembrance, Canberra

 

About 3.35am on 12 October, 1987 the constable was driving a police vehicle along Oxford Street, Paddington assisting a Rose Bay Police vehicle in the pursuit of a stolen car.

As the constable’s vehicle travelled around a sweeping left hand bend, the stolen vehicle, followed by the Rose Bay Police vehicle, was attempting a U turn at the intersection of Oatley Road.

Constable Macarounas applied the brakes however the wheels of his vehicle locked and the vehicle spun around before colliding with a light pole.

After being trapped in the damaged vehicle for about forty minutes, Constable Macarounas was conveyed to St Vincent’s Hospital suffering severe head, chest and internal injuries.

He died on 20 October, 1987 @ 4pm.

 

The constable was born in 1965 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 5 January, 1987. At the time of his death he was stationed at Paddington.


 

Themelis Arthur MACAROUNAS, Tim MACAROUNAS. Inscription Themelis (Tim) Macarounas 28.1.1965 - 20.10.1987 Aged 22 Yrs 9 Mths. In Memory Of Our Beloved Son And Brother Who Passed Away On The 20th October 1987 As A Result Of Injuries Sustained In An Accident On the 12th October Whilst In Pursuit Of A Stolen Vehicle In Oxford St. Paddington. "We Miss You So Much" Dad & Mum Anthony & Christopher-Troy.
Source:  Kevin BANISTER Inscription Themelis (Tim) Macarounas 28.1.1965 – 20.10.1987 Aged 22 Yrs 9 Mths.   In Memory Of Our Beloved Son And Brother Who Passed Away On The 20th October 1987 As A Result Of Injuries Sustained In An Accident On the 12th October Whilst In Pursuit Of A Stolen Vehicle In Oxford St. Paddington. “We Miss You So Much”  Dad & Mum Anthony & Christopher-Troy.


 

Deadly toll

By Jonathan Pearlman
November 6, 2004

Alone in his patrol car, Chris Thornton had the police siren flashing as he chased a white sedan through Woy Woy.

Thornton, 35, a highway patrolman, had been in the force for 15 years. He was, his mother says, “the best driver I have ever seen”.

The reason for the chase that night in April 2002 is unknown. Both cars were seen travelling at high speed. Thornton was about 50 metres behind.

Meanwhile, Leonard Rowley, 56, an unlicensed driver, was driving to his local KFC to pick up dinner. He saw the first car flash past and judged – wrongly – that he had time to turn out in front of the patrol car. Thornton tried to avoid Rowley’s car but clipped the back, veered onto the wrong side of the road and hit a power pole.

Thornton died on the spot, which is marked by a permanent stainless-steel cross. Rowley later received a suspended two-year sentence.

“His life from the age of 12 was about helping people,” says Thornton’s mother, Freada Thornton. “He was in the surf club and he was there to rescue people and then he went into the force and he was doing the same thing.” His father, Barry Thornton, says: “He loved life. He had been in Gosford for 15 years and was so popular with the community there.”

Police pursuits are, says Barry, a necessary evil: “If they don’t catch the criminals there will be more deaths on the roads. The ones that they’re in pursuit of are the idiots that have done the wrong thing to start with.”

But pursuits have come at a cost to the NSW Police Department. Fifteen officers have died as a result of high-speed chases, beginning with the death of Constable George Boore in 1937.

Details provided by the NSW Police Association show a steady stream of fatalities involving cars and motorcycles. The full list of casualties is as follows:

April 2, 1937: Constable George Boore;

June 2, 1954: Constable Cecil Sewell;

November 14, 1958: Constable Brian Boaden;

December 23, 1958: Constable William Lord;

October 14, 1961: Constable James Kinnane;

September 7, 1963: Constable Colin Robb;

December 2, 1976: Constable Terry Moncur;

January 3, 1985: Constable Wayne Rixon;

July 25, 1985: Detective-Constable Steven Tier;

October 20, 1987: Constable Themelis Macarounas;

August 24, 1988: Constable Peter Carter;

June 13, 1989: Constable Peter Figtree;

June 14, 1989: Senior Constable Glenn Rampling;

January 14, 2001: Senior Constable James Affleck;

April 13, 2002: Senior Constable Christopher Thornton.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/Police-Pursuits/Deadly-toll/2004/11/05/1099547386960.html