Review finds apparent bias in misconduct probe against Victoria Police officer’s who leaked documents; judge orders lesser penalty.
A disciplinary decision against a former Victoria Police officer has been overturned after a judicial review found apparent bias in the process, calling the demotion “incorrect” and disproportionate.
Background: Confidential Leaks and Fallout
In 2024, Sgt. Peter Gill—a veteran with 27 years of service—was disciplined for sharing unredacted, confidential documents with the media. The leaked documents fueled a Capital Daily report detailing alleged dysfunction and poor leadership within the Victoria Police Department. Gill, who described himself as a whistleblower, was demoted for “neglect of duty.”
Biased Oversight Undermined Process
Gill challenged the disciplinary outcome, arguing that the process was biased and punitive. Retired judge John James Threlfall, appointed to review the case, agreed. His ruling highlighted a critical procedural flaw: the disciplinary authority had been delegated to Insp. Colin Brown, the very officer who had filed the original complaint.
“A reasonably informed bystander would perceive bias… when the adjudicator was also the complainant,” Threlfall wrote, noting the department’s decision to keep the investigation in-house only deepened the perception of unfairness.
Discipline Reconsidered: Reprimand Instead of Demotion
Despite confirming the seriousness of Gill’s actions—releasing internal documents to the press—Threlfall emphasized the need for a fair process. Gill had not participated in the original hearing but admitted his actions and explained they stemmed from years of failed internal reform efforts.
Given Gill’s retirement shortly after the probe began and his long record of service, Threlfall concluded that a written reprimand—not a demotion—was the appropriate punishment.
Impact on Future Investigations
The ruling underscores the importance of impartial oversight in police disciplinary cases. Threlfall noted that had an external agency handled the investigation, Gill may have remained on the force and presented his side more fully.
“The decision to keep the case ‘in house’ coloured all that occurred thereafter,” Threlfall wrote.
Final Word
Though Gill’s actions were not condoned, the review found that systemic issues within the department, including poor leadership and procedural unfairness, played a key role in the outcome.
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