PROSECUTORS ANNOUNCED FOR HURLEY TRIAL

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine today announced leading Brisbane barrister Peter Davis SC would head the prosecution of Senior Sergeant Christopher Hurley in relation to the death of Mulrunji on Palm Island in late 2004.

Mr Shine said Crown Law had engaged Mr Davis to lead the prosecution during the manslaughter trial.

“Mr Davis is an extremely experienced criminal lawyer who has wide experience both as a prosecutor and defence barrister,” Mr Shine said.

“He was appointed senior counsel in November 2005 and more recently assisted Sir Laurence Street in preparing his opinion on whether there were sufficient grounds for the institution of criminal proceedings with respect to the death of Mulrunji.

“The fact that he a detailed understanding of this case leaves him ideally suited to lead the prosecution.”

Mr Shine said Brisbane barristers David Kent and Jonathan Horton would assist Mr Davis.

“I am currently awaiting advice from the Crown Solicitor about the appropriate manner in which the proceedings should be initiated,” he said.

“I hope to have this advice in the coming days and will make an announcement thereafter.”

Mr Shine reiterated the need for restraint in the reporting of this issue given the pending legal proceedings.

Media contact: Paul Holmes (Attorney-General’s office) 3239 6400 or 0407 378 796 paul.holmes@ministerial.qld.gov.au