Cranky old bugger on the outside but a lovely man when you got to know him. Spent a very enjoyable Xmas with him at Bob Stark at Mossman Police Station one year. Went to a prang with party hats instead of Police hats, caused a riot of laughter with them all….told em to piss off and go home…
Death was advertised in the Canberra Times on 16 September 1998 and Sydney Morning Herald on 12 September 1998.
No further details are known about this man or his death – other than he died not long after retirement.
Further information is sought.
Cal
14 May 2017
Brian Thomas Sydney GEYER
| 14/05/2017
Brian Thomas Sydney GEYER
Late of Cardwell, ACT
Husband to former Constable Katherine Florence GEYER nee WILSON, NSWPF # P/W 0227 ( R.I.P. 2022 )
Redfern Police Academy Class # 088
New South Wales Police Force
Regd. # 10084
Rank: Commenced Training at Redfern Police Academy on Monday 14 August 1961 ( aged 19 years, 5 months, 12 days )
Probationary Constable – appointed 30 October 1961 ( aged 19 years, 7 months, 28 days )
Constable – appointed ? ? ?
Constable 1st Class – appointed 1 April 1967
Senior Constable – appointed 1 April 1971
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 13 January 1978
Sergeant 2nd Class – appointed 31 August 1984
Sergeant 1st Class – appointed ? ? ?
Inspector 3rd Class – appointed 18 March 1987
Final Rank = ?
Stations: ?, ‘D’ District ( 1968 ), Tenterfield ( around 1969 – 1975 ), Mossman ( 6 Division ),
Police Gay Liaison Unit ( OIC – January 1986 ), Macquarie Fields ( Sgt ), Liverpool ( 22 Division – Inspector – 1987 ), Queanbeyan ( 1988 )
Service: From 14 August 1961 to? ? between 1985 – 1988? = 24+ years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 1 September 1982 ( Sgt 3/c )
1st Clasp to National Medal – granted 7 November 1988 ( Insp. )
Police Overseas Service Medal – Clasp CYPRUS – granted 19 October 1992 ( Sgt 3/c )
Born: Monday 2 March 1942
Died on: ? May 1988
Age: 46 years,
Cause: ?
Event location: ?
Event date: ?
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
BRIAN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance *NEED MORE INFO
FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Following the death notification issued yesterday, all members are advised that a funeral service for the late Mrs Lynda Lawrie, rego 9141670 is to be held at the North Chapel, Pinegrove Memorial Park, Kington Street, Minchinbury on Thursday, 16 March 2017 at 1300hr. All friends and former colleagues are invited to attend.
The Lawrie family have accepted an offer of police involvement at the funeral service. The Penrith Local Area Command will provide a Guard of Honour at the chapel at the commencement of the service.
Dearest Lynda, rest easy my friend and thanks for all the wonderful memories and good times. Your boys did you proud today. It was a beautiful service. You will be missed greatly. Big hugs Claire and Bushy xxx
Claire Buchtmann signed the Guest Book
2 months ago via mobile
Dearest Lynda, rest easy my friend and thanks for all the wonderful memories and good times. Your boys did you proud today. It was a beautiful service. You will be missed greatly. Big hugs Claire and Bushy xxx
Claire Buchtmann signed the Guest Book
2 months ago via mobile
Lynda
To your family I wish them solace and comfort knowing you are no longer in pain. May you rest peacefully. The world is sadder for the loss of a beautiful soul. Sambo
Stephen Samson lit a candle for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
RIP Lynda. I hope your great fighting spirit and want to help others, even when it wasn’t going to help you, inspires your boys to be their best. Thank you for becoming my friend, I’m sorry I can’t be there today, I’m still in Yamba xx
Sandra Lanyon gave a flower for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
Rest in Love Lynda
Tahnee Halangahu gave a flower for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
Eva Lucas lit a candle for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
Lynda I will miss you so much at least your in no more pain thinking of your family today fly high lovely lady love you
kim rule gave a flower for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
Ann Sanderson lit a candle for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
My heartfelt thoughts are with Lynda’s husband and son’s on this sad occasion, may you cherish your happy memories, Bless you all at this sad time Ann Sanderson
Ann Sanderson lit a candle for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
Love you xx
Esme O’Driscoll gave a flower for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
My beautiful and amazing friend. Words cannot express just how much having you in my life meant. Not a day will go by where I don’t think of you and remember the amazing, courageous and strong women you were. You are now pain free beautiful angel. Fly high and rest easy. Till we meet again. Forever in our hearts never to be forgotten
Esme O’Driscoll lit a candle for Lynda Anne Lawrie
2 months ago via mobile
RIP my little sister. Your pain and suffering are now gone and I know that you are safe with Dad and David. Thank you for the being the best sister, friend and confidant to me throughout your life. I will miss you more than words can say
Until we meet again xxxx
Carol Kenny signed the Guest Book
2 months ago via mobile
My beautiful sister your pain and suffering has now gone and I know that you are now with Dad and David. I will miss you terribly more than words can say. I was always so proud to call you my sister and your love and constant support to me throughout your life has meant so much. Your battle is now over and I want to thank you for being the best sister, friend and confidant ever to me. RIP my little sister. Until we meet again xxxxxx
Lynda is suffering from terminal cancer. Her colleagues have established a ‘Go Fund Me’ page to raise money to provide facilities which will enable relatives of cancer sufferers to stay overnight at the hospital.
Lynda Lawrie has been prescribed medical cannabis through ABC Cannabis medical clinic. The government have blocked her access. Share to help the dying mother have relief from pain in her final days.
Any Cancer patients needing a prescriber for medical cannabis please register on our website. https://abccannabis.com.au/
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Boy suffers aneurysm after alleged attack in schoolyard
Rachel Olding
A high school student has reportedly suffered an aneurysm after an attack by a schoolyard bully.
Josh Lawrie, 15, was allegedly attacked last Monday at St Dominic’s College, a Catholic school in Kingswood, in western Sydney, Channel 7 Newsreported.
Josh Lawrie after the ‘one punch’ attack. Photo: Channel 7
He was reportedly walking through the schoolyard at lunchtime and was punched from behind by a student, who has since been suspended.
He continued to be punched while face-down on the ground until a friend intervened, Channel 7 News said.
Josh and his father Richard Lawrie shown in his hospital ward at Nepean Hospital. Photo: Channel 7
“The next thing I remember is being in the bathroom washing my face,” Josh said.
A police spokesman confirmed that Josh and his mother went to St Mary’s police station on Tuesday, the day after the incident, to report “an assault which is alleged to have occurred at a local high school”.
“After reporting the matter to police, the teen was taken to hospital by his mother for scans and treatment of head injuries,” the spokesman said.
Channel 7 News reported that the school initially sent Josh home with his mother Lynda Lawrie, rather than calling an ambulance.
Josh Lawrie in his hospital bed at Nepean Hospital. Photo: Channel 7
The aneurysm only surfaced during later scans.
The teenager has since undergone brain surgery and will spend his school holidays in hospital.
“I’ve … got a major brain problem and he’s just going to get a suspension for that,” Josh told Channel 7 News.
“He’s wrecked my life and he’ll only get a slap on the wrist.
“I don’t think that’s really good enough,” he said.
Channel 7 News reported that Josh has been told by doctors that he won’t be able to play sport again and will have to take blood thinning medication for the rest of his life.
Josh has been repeatedly bullied at the school and his parents told Channel 7 News that they believe the offender should be held accountable.
Ms Lawrie said that the first thing she was asked when she brought her son to the hospital was why he wasn’t taken in by an ambulance.
His father Richard Lawrie said “young fellas have to realise what they are doing” and think about the consequences of their actions.
A police spokesman said: “Police have obtained a number of statements and are now conducting inquiries into the matter.”
The school has not released an official comment but told Channel 7 News that there are two sides to the story.
Thank you for visiting our team page. Relay For Life is our opportunity to join together to make a difference in our community. Each year thousands of Australians participate in Relays across Australia and our team is proud to be part of that. By joining or donating to our team, you will be helping Cancer Council save even more lives. New South Wales Police Force take great pride in attending this years event for the 6th time. This is a great community event and is a great way for Police to interact with our community in a positive way. We once again look forward to meeting some fantastic people and engaging our community.
We’re aiming high – help us reach our fundraising goal!
From Canada to you all, Thank you for doing this for my cousin, the boys and Lynda’s memory.
Richard is my cousin and we are all devastated by the loss of Lynda.
So we send our support and thanks to you all. �♡�
Cherished father of David, Ian & Tara (both dec) and Michelle.
Treasured grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many.
Never Forgotten
John’s family and friends are warmly welcome to attend his Funeral Service to be held in the Chapel of Greenway Memorial Gardens, 460 Avoca Drive, Green Point on MONDAY (March 27th, 2017) commencing at 10.00 am.
In lieu of flowers a donation to Lung Foundation Australia would be appreciated.
May 12, 2017
.
We just heard the sad news of John’s passing and wish to send our condolences to Michelle and boys, and David.We spent many happy hours with John and Helen while the children were growing up, always an open home where there was always a welcome.Thinking of you all
Maureen, Shauna and Michael.
Commissioner’s Commendation Awarded to Detective Senior Constable John O’HAGAN of the Criminal Investigation Branch whose signature appears in the margin, in recognition of his outstanding courage and devotion to Duty displayed at Hurstville on 27 April 1969 when in the company of another member of the Force he confronted two Armed and Highly dangerous offenders who had previously fired upon Police after attempting to kidnap a citizen from his residence. Despite threats to his life, he assisted in the arrest of the offenders at gunpoint. Commissioner of Police Fred Hanson 20 May 1975
Canberra Times (ACT : 1926 – 1995),
Wednesday 1 February 1978, page 8
Man ‘in fear for his life’
MELBOURNE: A 40-year old man who was ordered to be extradited to NSW yesterday was in fear for his life, his counsel told the City Court.
Detective Senior Constable John O’Hagan, of the NSW police armed-robbery squad, presented an application for the extradition of Mr Edwin John Middleton before Mr Danaher, SM.
The application stated that Mr Middleton was wanted to appear in court in Sydney charged with indictable offences.
Mr Tony Fisher, for Mr Middleton, said Mr Middleton thought his life “wouldn’t be worth tuppence” if he was sent to the Long Bay Jail central cells without police protection.
He feared he would be “got at” in the cells unless he had police protection.
Detective O’Hagan said provisions had been made for Mr Middleton’s safety.
Mr Danaher ordered Mr Middleton to be returned to Sydney in the custody of Detective O’Hagan.
SYDNEY: Detective Sergeant John Henry Walton, 37, was killed and Detective Senior Constable John O’Hagan, 33, was seriously injured when a police car driven by Detective O’Hagan ran into a horse-float in Epping early yesterday.
A magnificent gentleman.
A man of the very highest caliber and a true leader.
A man with a distinctive drawl, who had the backs (and utmost respect) of all of his troops.
Some current serving ‘bosses’ could learn much from CH/INSP Hahn’s legacy.
Rest in Peace, Sir.
You will not be forgotten.
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Alan Victor DWYER
| 14/05/2017
Alan Victor DWYER
Late of ?
New South Wales Police Force
[alert_yellow]Regd. # 8232[/alert_yellow]
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 7 November 1955
Sergeant 3rd Class – appointed 3 June 1974
Sergeant 2nd Class – Retirement
Stations: ?, Campsie, Lakemba ( 1970’s & 80’s ), Canterbury HWP, Far North Coast HWP, Paddington – Retirement
Service: From? ? pre November 1955? to 29 May 1986=30+ years Service
Awards: No find on It’s An Honour
Born: 4 July 1936
Died on: Friday 28 April 2017 about 8am at Nepean Hospital
Age: 80
Cause: Cancer of the throat
Event location: Nepean Hospital
Event date: 28 April 2017
Funeral date: Thursday 4 May 2017 @ noon
Funeral location: Sacred Heart Chapel, Rookwood Cemetery, Memorial Ave, Rookwood
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
Bill Davies with Alan Dwyer – July 2016
[alert_yellow]ALAN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFO
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Recently I posted in relation Alan Victor Dwyer, who I served with a Campsie and Lakemba back in the late 70,s and early 80,s. Alan and I were also close mates outside the job. My family and his spent many outings together. Alan died today at abot 8am, at Nepean Hospital, after a short but uncomfortable , battle with throat cancer. The Cancer spread to his leg and other locations on his body. I have no idea of funeral arrangements. I am in contact with his wife, Narelle. I will post any further info when it comes to hand.
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Bill Davies – 20 April 2017
Not even 12 months ago, I met up with Alan Dwyer, to celebrate his 80th Birthday. He looked, moved and spoke like a bloody healthy 50 year old. Unfortunately now I have to report that Al is not doing so great. In fact, things have turned pretty Sh$%y for him. Al has cancer. He now has a trachy. He cannot speak and has trouble breathing, due to congestion on his lungs. The outlook is not great. I know many in our group , know Alan. I have spoken with his wife, Narelle, who has agreed to let me now tell of his plight. Al is in ICU, Nepean Hospital. Visiting from 11am. 2 persons at a time. Narelle tells me he perks up when he has a visitor. he communicates by writing on a board.
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Kenneth Francis RICH
| 14/05/2017
Kenneth Francis RICH
Late of ?
Victoria Police Force
Regd. # 22376
Rank: Sergeant
Stations: ?, Berwick, Narre Warren ( 25 years ) – death
Service: From? ? 1980to 14 April 2017=37 years Service
Awards: National Medal – granted 26 March 1998
Born: ? ? 1962
Died on: Friday 14 April 2017
Age: 55
Cause: Motor Vehicle Collision – Push Bike rider
Event location: Princes Hwy near Dore Rd, Pakenham, Victoria
Event date: Friday 14 April 2017
Funeral date: Wednesday 26 April 2017 at noon
Funeral location: Victoria Police Academy, Glen Waverley
Police Honours
At the conclusion of the Service the cortege will leave for the Gembrook Cemetery, Blackwood Lane, Gembrook arriving at approx. 2.30 p.m.
To help celebrate Ken’s life and to reflect his love of the Sydney Swans, please wear
a touch of red and white.
No flowers by request.
A donation in memory of Ken may be made to the Amy Gillett Foundation.
Envelopes will be available at the Chapel.
Buried at: Gembrook Cemetery,
Memorial located at: ?
May 1999
May 1999
[alert_blue]KEN is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_blue]*NOT JOB RELATED
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
Taken too soon Husband and soul mate to his loving wife Kerry.
Devoted and loving Dad to Samantha, Charlene, Jacinta, Crystal and Brandon.
Cherished Memories
Forever In Our Hearts
x
xxxxx
Our dearest Ken, we have always thought of you as a son.
Thank you for the love and care you have always given to all the family.
‘‘How we will miss you’’
Love always — Doug (dec) and Nan. xo
RICH – Ken
What a loving, caring family man you were. Always willing to help.
We all looked up to you for guidance. We will miss your passion for the Sydney Swans.
– Tracey and Gary, Kellie and Kaycee.
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Hi
A lot of really wonderful people contributed tributes and photos.
Some info:
Ken Rich was promoted to Sgt. at Narre Warren where he has been for the past 25 years. Before that, he worked at Berwick. He was one of the original sergeants at Narre Warren.
Tributes:
Ken I am so lost for words. You were a fixture at Narre and I always loved to catch up with you personally or by phone. You were never too busy to help me out or have a laugh. A special colleague for so many years. Called home too early. Rest in peace and pride for your many years of service. Condolences to family, friends and colleagues. – Barb Rawlings
All the love for the Rich family. Sammy Rich Jacinta Rich Charlene Rich. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the whole family. R.I.P Mr. Ken Rich – Delmar Dimay Limosnero
Deepest sympathy to Ken’s family. Your keen wit and sense of right and wrong will be missed. Your legacy is the good you did over the years of your service. Remembered with respect. – Ron Gardner
Great bloke. We were mates years ago in the job. At each other’s 21st and had the same circle of friends and parties. I regret that I have not seen Kenny for many years. RIP brother. Taken far too soon. – Brian Igoe
R.I.P. Ken, your work is now done!
You were a gentleman and a great Cop.
It was a pleasure to have served with you.
To the Rich family, be very proud of Ken.
Trev Beattie (22472)
What a wonderful man. So terribly sorry for your loss Jacinta, Crystal and family. I remember him very fondly. – Kristine Baird van Ruiten
As a JP who works at Narre Warren Police Station, I send condolences to Ken’s family and all officers at the station. – Margaret Tinschert
RIP Sergeant Ken Rich. From all members at the Beechworth police station. – Geoff PS
Omg jacinta!!!!! So so sorry to hear about your loss, cant imagine how you are feeling or what you are going through! Thinking of you and your family at this devistating time 🙁 big hugs xxxxxxxxxx – Chookie Chook
RIP from the staff of Pakenham Hills Primary School – Paul Taylor
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‘His kids were his world’: Family of veteran police officer Ken Rich killed in bike crash share grief
Timna Jacks, Melissa Cunningham
A heartbroken relative of an off-duty police officer who was hit by a ute while cycling with his daughter in Melbourne’s south-east on Good Friday says his family were “his world” and he was on the cusp of retiring when he was killed.
The pair was riding east on the Princes Highway, near Dore Road, at Pakenham when the officer, Sergeant Ken Rich, was hit by a Toyota Hilux ute about 8.50am.
Ken Rich surrounded by his brother, sister and cousins on his graduation day from the police force. Photo: Supplied
Sergeant Rich’s daughter cared for him at the scene until an ambulance arrived.
Paramedics worked on him for about an hour, but he died at the scene.
His devastated cousin Sue Dickson said the father-of-five loved nothing more than spending time with his wife Kerry and their adult children Samantha, Charlene, Jacinta, Crystal and Brandon.
“His kids were his world,” Ms Dickson said.
“He was involved in all their activities as they were growing up and coached many kids in the Pakenham area.”
“He was a real family man and loved being at home with his wife and kids.”
Sergeant Ken Rich pictured celebrating his birthday with his cousin and close friend Sue Dickson. Photo: Supplied
Ms Dickson said she’d grown up with Sergeant Rich and the pair remained close, sharing every birthday together.
“We were born two days apart,” she said.
“Our mothers are identical twins so we grew up together (and we) saw each other almost every day.”
Ms Dickson said the devoted father and police officer had confided in her recently about the increasing pressures of his work and his desire to retire soon.
“The last few real conversations I had with him made me realise how much the police force got him down,” she said.
“He hated the youth suicide problem and the fact that many young people were not growing up in a loving family environment any more.”
By others that knew him, Sergeant Rich was remembered as a “real personality” and a highly regarded law enforcement officer .
“He was out enjoying Good Friday with his family as most people are across the country,” Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill said.
Sergeant Rich, had only taken up cycling in recent years.
“The family is heartbroken. They are dealing with the loss of a husband and a father,” Mr Hill said.
The officer had been in the force since 1980 and worked at the Narre Warren police station for 25 years.
Sergeant Rich was in “the twilight of his policing career” and “looking forward to retirement, looking forward to spending time with his wife and children … looking forward to travel and all of those things on our bucket list when we come to the end of our careers,” Mr Hill said.
His colleagues were devastated at the tragic news.
“They have lost one of their members, one of their leaders, their friend,” Mr Hill said.
“He was certainly well respected and well regarded … a member that was full of life, affable, a real personality around our police station.”.
“Road trauma; it doesn’t discriminate.”
Sergeant Rich’s friends and acquaintances have left tributes on social media for him.
“A good man lost his life today,” Simon Yeo said.
“Ken was swimming coach to our boys and President of the Cardinia Piranhas Swim Club. RIP.”
Mandy Yeo wrote: “RIP Ken our thoughts with you and your family.”
Angie King described him as a “wonderful man, brave, kind”.
“Rest in peace, Ken Rich,” she said.
“Thank you.”
The officer and his daughter were cycling east, on the shoulder of the highway in a 100km/h zone.
The ute was also travelling east when it struck the officer, police said.
It has been reported the ute was trying to overtake the cyclists, when the side mirror of the vehicle hit Sergeant Rich.
The driver of the ute, a 58-year-old man from Pakenham, was not injured. He stayed at the scene and was assisting police with their inquiries.
Major collision investigation unit detectives are working to determine the cause of the crash.
Secretary of the Victorian Police Association, Sergeant Wayne Gatt sent his condolences to the officer’s family.
“Earlier today, we learnt that one of our members was tragically killed in a road accident,” he said.
“For the member’s family, friends and close policing colleagues, the Easter period will now always be tinged with sadness. Our prayers and condolences are with them all, at this very difficult time.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Catherine WallRIP Sergeant Ken Rich & condolences to his wife & family & his daughter who was there, May God bless & protect her & also the driver of the car from the little I have heard it WAS an accident & I can only “imagine” the agonies this poor man is going through & will continue to endure, so sad .
Daniel GabrielYet a couple weeks ago the Victorian government announced that it has no immediate plans to introduce a minimum passing distance law for vehicles overtaking cyclists despite other states bringing it in. RIP
Rose NelanjRIP Sgt RICH. A stalwart man if ever there was one. I am fairly sure the world stopped turning for just a second when you left it behind. May you watch over us now from a better place, where peace and kindness rein. Loving thoughts and prayers for your family Ken and for your brave and loving daughter, who was by your side.
Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill on behalf of all staff within Victoria Police Southern Metro Region express heartfelt condolences and offer our deepest sympathy to the family on the tragic passing of our much respected colleague and valued friend.
RICH. Ken. The President, Executive and Members of The Police Association mourn the passing of Sergeant Rich and extend their deepest sympathy to his family.
The Chief Commissioner, Officers, Employees of Victoria Police Force regret the tragic death of their colleague and offer their deepest sympathy to his family.
BULL, William George Frederick.
“Bill”
22nd April, 2017
Much loved husband of Carol.
Loving father and father-in-law of Lisa & Michael, Wayne & Carmel, Grant & Julie.
Loving step-father of Melissa & Ryan, Ben & Kelly.
Cherished and devoted Pop of Jaymie, Conor, Rory, Brady, Nathan, Aaron, Gabrielle, Isabelle, Karlie, Joshua, Kai, Taj and Rylie.
Aged 78 Years
Forever In Our Hearts
Bill’s family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life to be held in the South Chapel of the Woronora Crematorium on Friday 28th April, 2017 at 11:00am.
April 26, 2017
The staff of Cancer Council would like to send our deepest sympathies for your loss. Thank you for your kind and generous support during this sad and difficult time.
Cancer Council, New South Wales
Published in The Sydney Morning Herald on Apr. 26, 2017 – See more at: http://tributes.smh.com.au/obituaries/smh-au/obituary.aspx?n=william-george-frederick-bull&pid=185199610&fhid=15076#sthash.WBDAUJEE.dpuf
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Matthew WILLIAMS
| 14/05/2017
Matthew WILLIAMS
Late of Fairlight
New South Wales Police Force
DPP 7
Regd. # 34897
Rank: Probationary Constable – appointed 22 December 2002?
Stations: ?, City Central G.D’s ( 2001 – 2003 ) – Death
Service: From? ? pre December 2002? to 17 July 2003= 7+ months Service
Awards: Nil
Born: ? ? ?
Died on: Thursday 17 July 2003
Age: 26
Cause: Overdose – Heroin
Event location: at his home – Fairlight
Event date: Thursday 17 July 2003
Funeral date: ? ? ?
Funeral location: ?
Buried at: ?
Memorial located at: ?
[alert_yellow]MATTHEW is NOT mentioned on the Police Wall of Remembrance[/alert_yellow] *NEED MORE INFORMATION
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FURTHER INFORMATION IS NEEDED ABOUT THIS PERSON, THEIR LIFE, THEIR CAREER AND THEIR DEATH.
By John Kidman and Sean Berry August 3 2003
The Sun-Herald
A brief is being prepared for the coroner on the baffling overdose death of a young Sydney police officer, with detectives unable to discount the possibility he met with foul play.
The tragedy has also sparked a crisis of confidence within the force’s elite Special Crimes and Internal Affairs branch (SCIA), following claims that repeat warnings about the constable running off the rails were ignored.
City Central general duties officer Matthew Williams was found dead at his Fairlight home unit on the city’s northern beaches 17 days ago, The Sun-Herald has learned.
Sources close to the investigation say he was discovered by his flatmate – also a police officer – with two isolated needle marks in his arm and a used syringe beside his bed.
Suicide and misadventure have not been ruled out, but detectives are also said to be considering the extraordinary prospect that the 26-year-old policeman was deliberately injected with a lethal dose of heroin – known within the criminal fraternity as a “hot shot”.
Internal affairs and crime scene investigators are understood to have spent almost five hours combing the apartment without finding any further trace of the drugs that killed him or other incriminating evidence.
Williams was thought to have spent the night before he died drinking with workmates into the early hours of the morning.
“There was talk about him heading up to the [Kings] Cross afterwards,” one said on condition of anonymity. “But that’s the last anyone knows about what happened.”
On Friday, senior detectives from Manly, the nearest command to where Williams’s body was found, spent the morning speaking to his parents, Robert and Mary Williams, at their home in Sydney’s inner-west.
The couple is still too distraught to speak about the case.
A spokeswoman for NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney said on Friday he was unable to comment on the incident while it was before the coroner.
However, a Sun-Herald investigation has found that Williams had been the subject of a series of police intelligence reports alleging his involvement with party drugs and the inner-city club scene.
Last year, Mr Moroney announced plans to thwart corruption by profiling at-risk officers and intervening to save their careers before they did the wrong thing.
An ongoing audit of internal corruption complaints by SCIA has revealed that hundreds of complaints are not being acted upon.
In Williams’s case, at least one of his colleagues is alleged to have referred to his association with staff at the Cross’s notorious Stripperama, the same club where four off-duty police officers were savagely bashed in June.
Williams’s City Central colleagues spoke warmly of him yesterday.
“He was popular, really popular,” one told The Sun-Herald.
