Australian federal and New South Wales police are appealing for public assistance to identify the mystery author of more than 100 letters, some threatening, sent to high-profile community figures since 2015. The author, who uses the pseudonyms 'Scorpio' and 'Bullit', has targeted state and federal parliamentarians, religious organisations, and community leaders.
Investigation Details
Police have released excerpts of the letters, which have undergone forensic examination. The investigation is being conducted under Strike Force Yewrangara by NSW police, while the Australian Federal Police (AFP) is examining letters sent to federal parliamentarians and community groups. Authorities say the letters constitute threatening or harassing behaviour in some cases.
Concerns Over Escalation
AFP Superintendent Nathan Robertson stated on Tuesday that the priority is to prevent any escalation into behaviour that could endanger the community. 'We have very real concerns about the content of these letters, and people in public life deserve to go about their jobs or careers without being subject to harassment or threats,' he said.
Distinctive Handwriting and Clues
Among the released excerpts is a menacing smiley face with what appear to be impressions left by bullet casings for eyes, above the signature 'Scorpio'. The author also refers to themselves as 'Bullit' and often capitalises the letters 'F', 'L', 'T', 'N', and 'H'. Police believe the offender is a man of Caucasian appearance in his 60s.
Police Closing In
While the author's identity remains unknown, police say they are closing in. Robertson added, 'Our investigations are into allegations of criminal behaviour, but we also have concerns about whether the person responsible for them has access to appropriate health and support services.'
