Michael’s turnaround

Michael, a 23-year-old heavy cannabis user, spiralled into depression and unemployment during the COVID lockdowns. One night, fuelled by frustration, he sent a threatening message to a politician’s public Facebook account, including a picture to support the threat. Understandably, the Federal Police took the threat seriously. Months later, they arrested Michael for threatening to assassinate a public official. Online threats fall under Commonwealth jurisdiction, with severe penalties expected. By the time the matter reached court a year later, Michael had made positive changes. He had addressed his substance abuse and mental health issues, undergone detox and had returned to part-time work. He realized the impact of his actions on the recipient of the message.

PCLC, which had represented Michael in the past, gathered references and supporting materials and made a plea on his behalf. After lengthy negotiations, with Prosecutions, it was agreed to a lengthy recognizance with conviction instead of imprisonment. Michael was relieved, avoiding prison but learning a valuable lesson. While the incident remains on his record, it served as a sobering experience following his encounter with the Federal Police.