Simon Overland has issued a statement to the ABC program Media Watch regarding his concerns over recent media coverage by some sections of the media of a high profile criminal investigation. 

In the interests of justice police had asked the media not to identify or speculate in relation to suspects as it may adversely effect the investigation. Many journalists cooperated and the Chief Commissioner was disappointed that some chose not to.   The following statement was issued to Media Watch in relation to their story.

‘Media Watch’ response
News coverage of Marysville fire suspect

Victoria Police is extremely concerned and disappointed that the media have chosen to ignore requests from investigators not to speculate on the status of the investigation into the Marysville fires.

The media must keep in mind that 38 people lost their lives as a result of this tragic incident.

This is an incredibly important investigation and the media need to leave it up to police to identify and interview suspects.

We will be taking these matters up with the individual media outlets concerned and whilst we respect the right of journalists to do their job they have a clear and direct responsibility to ensure that their actions do not impede police investigations.

The media was asked not to identify any possible suspects as this had the potential to compromise the investigation and in turn the success of any prosecution.

The safety of the nominated suspect must also be taken into consideration. This is a highly emotive issue which has deeply impacted on many communities. Overtly identifying suspects creates considerable risks to their personal safety.

A team of dedicated detectives continue to work tirelessly with a view to laying charges and bringing those responsible before the courts. This is the correct place for a person’s guilt or innocence to be decided, not on the front page of the newspaper or the television news.

Simon Overland
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner

Share This Page