Full Story The manhunt in Porepunkah continues
Aug 27, 2025
Nino Bucci, a Justice and Courts reporter, delves into the tense manhunt for Dezi Freeman, a self-identified 'sovereign citizen' linked to the tragic shooting of two police officers in Porepunkah. He sheds light on the unfolding drama as police navigate challenging terrain and severe weather conditions. The conversation also touches on the community's mixed feelings about Freeman and the emotional toll of the officers' deaths. Bucci offers insights into how the situation reflects the rise of sovereign citizen beliefs and its implications for law enforcement.
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Sovereign Citizen Beliefs Shaped The Case
- Desi Freeman is linked to sovereign citizen and pseudo‑law beliefs which shaped his clashes with authorities.
- Police view those beliefs as a relevant risk factor in how they assessed and responded to him.
Locals Describe Freeman As Skilled In Bush
- Locals described Freeman as skilled in bushcraft and hard to find in the rugged terrain around Porepunkah.
- One mechanic called him a "new age Ned Kelly" while also noting he's "someone's father."
Weather Complicates The Manhunt
- Weather was cold and rainy with snow forecast, complicating both search and survival prospects.
- Police warned that freezing temperatures make locating and apprehending Freeman more difficult.