Veronica Gorrie, a Gunai/Kurnai woman, made a bold decision to become a police officer in an effort to make a difference in her community. Growing up with a deep fear of the police, she wanted to break the cycle for her children and ensure that her community felt safe when law enforcement was present. However, after serving as a police officer in Queensland from 2001 to 2011, Gorrie realized that her people’s fears of the police were justified. She witnessed racism, corruption, and police brutality within the force, leading her to eventually leave the profession.
In response to her experiences, Gorrie became the editor of an anthology titled „When Cops are Criminals.“ The anthology features chapters such as „Being Aboriginal is a Crime“ and „The Police Family Violence Offender: a Protected Species,“ where contributors share their stories of racial profiling, physical abuse, corruption, and police brutality. Gorrie’s goal with the anthology is to give a voice to those who have been traumatized by their interactions with the police and to shed light on the systemic issues within law enforcement.
One of the key messages of the anthology is the lack of accountability within the police force. Gorrie believes that there has never been a reckoning in the country, and many people struggle to comprehend the concept of corrupt police officers because they have only seen the „good cop.“ She calls for the defunding of the police, arguing that resources should be redirected towards community-led initiatives that focus on keeping each other safe without the need for law enforcement involvement.
Jeremy King, a principal at Robinson Gill Lawyers, echoes Gorrie’s sentiments about police accountability. He highlights the culture of impunity within Victoria Police, where the majority of complaints against officers are handled internally. King advocates for an independent police ombudsman to ensure proper oversight and accountability within law enforcement.
Kate Pausina, a former police officer turned whistleblower, shares her story in the anthology about leaving the force due to bullying, sexual discrimination, and negligence. Her experience sheds light on the challenges faced by officers who speak out against misconduct within the police force. Pausina emphasizes the need for systemic change and accountability within law enforcement to address issues of sexism, bullying, and criminal behavior.
„When Cops are Criminals“ serves as a powerful platform for individuals to share their experiences and advocate for change within the police force. The anthology challenges the status quo and calls for meaningful reform to address the systemic issues of racism, corruption, and abuse of power within law enforcement. It is a call to action for accountability, transparency, and justice in policing practices.