U-turn cop to stand trial

[Bass]

It wasn't spelt out, so this is only my opinion, but I got the impression that the judge hammered him because he didn't accept that he had done anything wrong.

[Mikkel]

So lets not have any more of this, 'The cops always look after their own,' crap.

Personally, I think the penalty is manifestly unjust, compared to what would be handed out to a non-cop for a similar action. But that's just my view.

With power comes responsibility. I'd argue that policeofficers on duty are expected to act more responsibly than Joe Public.

That said, I suppose an example was made in this case. The punishment does seem harsh compared to other sentences - but then again, many other sentences are laughable and it is not uncommon to hear people calling for more significant punishments... at least not in here.

If by encouraging someone to kill a person you may be liable for accessory to murder, then the Highway Patrol office and Labour Party former transport minister should be partially held liable for the $60,000 fine for encouraging this sort of behavior that puts enforcement above common sense and safety.

That is a very good point indeed. A lot of issues in regards to speeding enforcement could do with a thorough review IMHO.

If this result will make every policeofficer out there be even more aware of when and where they do a U-turn to pursue "dangerous offenders" it is all good.

[EJK]

Saw the two rider's face on the papers this morning. They look very happy

[Maki]

He would most likely have gotten off next to scot free if he had immediately expressed remorse for his actions. He was hammered because of his attitude, not for what actually happened.

He deserved everything he got and then some. An officer of the law is there to SERVE AND PROTECT the public. Not put people lives in danger on revenue gathering excersises.

[lankyman]

Under the new code of conduct rules he'll get more than that.

If anything cops get hammered more than us normal types if found guilty.

And that's the way it should be. These guys (and gals) are meant to be our model citizens

[munterk6]

He would most likely have gotten off next to scot free if he had immediately expressed remorse for his actions. He was hammered because of his attitude, not for what actually happened.

He deserved everything he got and then some. An officer of the law is there to SERVE AND PROTECT the public. Not put people lives in danger on revenue gathering excersises.

Spot on there mate...my thoughts exactly!

[scumdog]

And that's the way it should be. These guys (and gals) are meant to be our model citizens

Bugger!

I wish I'd known THAT when I joined!

[caseye]

Wouldn't have changed a thing and you know it.

[dpex]

I've been thinking about the penalty this guy got, on and off, all day.

Many of us on this site are quick to point out the slightest of injustices perpetrated by the cops and courts.

I have concluded the penalty the cop got was more than manifestly unjust and so consistency requires those who grieve about injustices to jump to this man's defence.

As Scumdog pointed out, even totally pissed-and-killed-someone drivers don't often get lumped with such penalty.

I intend to contact Mr Bridgens (I believe that is his name) to establish if he intends to appeal this appalling sentence. And, if he is, I will be offering a grand toward his legal costs because I believe manifest injustice sucks.

And so, are there any others out there who agree that manifest injustice sucks and who are also prepared to contribute a little to Mr Bridgens' appeal fund, should he decide to appeal?

And frankly, I don't care about the details of what he did to cause the bikers to get lumped. Many others have done as bad or far worse and got way less penalty; bikers included.

And so this is all about fair and reasonable judicial constancy.

[CookMySock]

Each to their own, but I think he had more than the usual responsibility to conduct himself in a safe manner on the road, as would any other person who was paid to be there.

Put the grand into another 600cc bike or similar, and keep doing the kids thing.

Steve

[Timber020]

Hopefully this has set a standard for what future simular things are judged by.

If so, awesome.

[Headbanger]

Hopefully this has set a standard for what future simular things are judged by.

If so, awesome.

My thoughts exactly.

[JimO]

its Bridgeman

[nodrog:Me]

i got an $80 ticket for doing 115kph in a mazda 121, i dont think thats fair, can i have a grand to defend it?

cheers

[Conquiztador]

Interesting thought.

Lets consider this: You have pain in your leg. You ask your mate what is wrong with you. He says that you must have hit your leg and you be sweet in a week.

You also go to a doctor. He tells you that you have hit your leg and you need to rest and you be fine in a week.

Three months later you loose your leg as a result of cancer that could have been sorted if you had the right treatment straight away.

Your mate says sorry. You say hey, not your fault.

The doctor says sorry. You sue him as he should have known better.

Responsibility comes with the job.

Give the $1K to a family who have lost their husband/father policeman while doing his duty.