Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley

Legal proceedings against police officer, Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley, have been instituted in the Supreme Court in Brisbane today.

The proceedings were commenced on behalf of Queensland Attorney-General Kerry Shine by way of the presentation of an ex officio indictment.

The indictment brought charges of manslaughter and assault against Senior Sergeant Hurley in relation to the death of Mulrunji on Palm Island in November 2004.

Prior to the exercise of his independent power as First Law Officer to prosecute indictable offences, Mr Shine had sought and obtained legal advice from Counsel in relation to the most appropriate means of proceeding in the sensitive circumstances surrounding this matter.

“As legal proceedings are now underway, I again urge restraint by all in commenting on this matter,” Mr Shine said.

The ex offico indictment has been presented and the matter has been adjourned for mention in the Supreme Court in Townsville on 16 March 2007.

Media contact: Kirby Anderson 3239 6400