Sisters Sue Police Over 'Invisible' Grief After Officer Deaths

The sisters of Neal Thompson, one of two police officers fatally shot by Dezi Freeman in Porepunkah last August, have announced their intention to sue Victoria Police for negligence. This planned legal action follows the conclusion of a coronial inquest into the officers' deaths. Their lawyer confirmed the negligence claim would proceed, though a date for the inquest has not yet been set.

The sisters, Dianne Thompson and Lois Kirk, expressed in a December letter to the Victoria police chief commissioner that they felt "ignored" and "invisible" after their brother's death. They stated that beyond the initial notification, adequate support and updates on the investigation were not provided, leaving them to grieve without assistance.

This situation has significantly impacted their mourning process, with experiences at the coroner's court and even during the funeral described as profoundly isolating. Victoria Police acknowledged the difficulty of the past seven months for the families and stated they have been in contact with them, offering support and updates. However, they also recognized the specific concerns raised by Detective Leading Senior Constable Thompson's sisters and confirmed direct meetings had occurred.