Death of William Fenner, NT
Jake Fenner, 32, was sentenced to three years in prison for causing the death of his father, William Fenner, in 2023. The incident involved a violent altercation at their home, resulting in William Fenner drowning in the family pool. Fenner had already spent over two years in custody, with his sentence backdated.

Drive-by shooting of Ater Good, VIC
Three men have been charged with the murder of 16-year-old Ater Good, who was fatally shot near Fitzroy Police Station on January 3. Police are investigating potential links to an earlier stabbing outside a Carlton restaurant. The accused are in custody and awaiting court appearances.

Jack’s Law weapon seizures, QLD
Queensland police report that over 900 weapons have been removed from public areas in six months under Jack’s Law, which allows warrantless metal detector checks in high-risk zones. The operation resulted in over 1,200 arrests and 2,400 charges. The law aims to prevent violent incidents in public spaces.

Naomi Tekea Craig, WA
Perth teacher Naomi Tekea Craig, 33, faces charges of sexual offences against a minor, including allegedly giving birth to a student’s child. Craig was previously charged with sexual penetration of a child and possession of child exploitation material. Additional charges are expected, and DNA testing has been conducted. The case has prompted her suspension and generated widespread concern regarding child safety in educational settings.

Mark Dennis SC, NSW
Sydney barrister Mark Dennis, 60, has been charged with possession and accessing child abuse material. He was arrested at Sydney Airport following intelligence-led screening. Dennis has been released on strict bail and ceased legal practice pending further court proceedings.

Death of Tim Picton, WA
Former Labor political strategist Tim Picton, 36, died after spending three weeks in a coma following an alleged one-punch assault outside a Northbridge nightclub. The accused, 20-year-old Brodie Jake Dewar, faces an upgraded manslaughter charge. The case highlights the risks associated with single-blow assaults.

Illicit Drug Seizures, National
A joint report from the Australian Border Force and AFP detailed the interception of over 25 tonnes of illicit drugs in the past year, including methamphetamine, cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, and heroin, valued at approximately $8.5 billion. Authorities reported innovative smuggling methods and emphasized ongoing efforts to prevent drugs from reaching Australian communities.

Stewart Burchell, WA
Former Broome pub manager Stewart Patrick Burchell, 52, was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment for rape and indecent assault of five female staff members at the Roebuck Bay Hotel between 2017 and 2023. The offences involved abuse of his managerial authority, with some victims feeling unable to report the conduct due to employment or visa concerns. Burchell also received a $7,000 fine and a lifetime restraining order. Parole eligibility is in 2029.