Police Failures Revealed in Tragic Domestic Violence Case
A devastating investigation has uncovered serious police failings in the case of Hannah Clarke and her three children, whose lives were tragically cut short in a domestic violence incident that shocked Australia. The Full Story podcast's special investigation, Broken Trust, reveals exclusive new evidence that highlights critical shortcomings in the Queensland police response leading up to the murders.
Ben Smee, Guardian Australia's Queensland correspondent, has been reporting extensively on the national crisis of domestic and family violence, as well as examining the culture and attitudes within the Queensland police force. His investigation reveals that serious police failings occurred before the deaths of Hannah Clarke and her children - failings that were overlooked by the coronial inquest and not properly investigated by homicide detectives.
Overlooked Evidence and Systemic Issues
The investigation examines how warning signs and opportunities for intervention were missed by authorities. Despite clear indicators of domestic violence risk, the system failed to protect Hannah Clarke and her children from the perpetrator who would ultimately take their lives.
The Queensland Police Service has responded to the findings, stating their commitment to protecting victim-survivors of domestic and family violence while acknowledging the coroner's findings in the Hannah Clarke case. The police service commended Constable Kent and noted that the organisation acted appropriately in its response, based on the information available at the time.
However, since the murders of Hannah, Aaliyah, Laianah and Trey, the Service admits it has needed to evolve and strengthen its response to domestic and family violence. The horrific incident highlighted the dangers of coercive control and prompted significant changes within the police force.
Training Overhaul and Systemic Changes
In response to the tragedy, Queensland Police has committed to developing additional training specifically focusing on the nuances of coercive control. The new approach emphasises that domestic and family violence investigations must be holistic rather than single-incident based, victim-centric and trauma informed.
Since early 2022, the QPS has progressively rolled out an extensive suite of additional training products, with some tailored to specific ranks and duties. Recruits now complete 23 days of domestic and family violence specific training, covering multiple factors including the criminalisation of coercive control, perpetrator tactics and behaviours, and the gendered nature of domestic violence.
The police service maintains it has robust processes and systems in place, with accountability through independent processes including the Coroners Court, the Domestic and Family Violence Death Review and Advisory Board, and the Crime and Corruption Commission.
Help remains available for those affected by domestic violence. In Australia, the national family violence counselling service can be reached on 1800 737 732, while specialised support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is available at 13YARN on 13 92 76. The crisis support service Lifeline can be contacted on 13 11 14.
