Victoria Police have posted a record $1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of Dezi Freeman, the fugitive accused of murdering two police officers during a warrant operation at Porepunkah on 26 August.
The unprecedented bounty is aimed at shaking loose fresh intelligence as the search enters its second week.
Detective Inspector Dean Thomas, Homicide Squad, said, “While the offering of a reward for a murder investigation is not unusual in itself, what sets this apart is that this reward is for arrest and not conviction – and it is the largest reward ever offered for an arrest in Victoria.
“This figure recognises the seriousness of this violent offending and our commitment to locating Freeman as soon as possible so that he is no longer a risk to the broader community.
“Our aim in offering this reward is that it will lead someone out there, who may not have been willing to come forward until this time, to contact police.”
“There is no doubt that up to a million dollars is a life-changing amount of money for anyone and has the potential to completely change their circumstances
Freeman — also known as Desmond Filby — allegedly opened fire on officers at his rural property, killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, and wounding a third officer who is recovering.
He fled into the surrounding bushland and is considered armed and dangerous. Police say there have been no confirmed sightings since.
Massive search, few leads
The hunt has drawn about 450 officers and specialist resources, with air surveillance and rough weather complicating operations across steep terrain. Investigators say Freeman may be receiving assistance or shelter and have urged anyone helping him to stop and come forward. “People know where he is,” a senior officer said earlier in the week.
Police are also probing whether the fugitive could be hiding in remote structures such as mineshafts or bunkers in the Alpine region. Authorities stressed that members of the public should not approach Freeman under any circumstances and should pass on information to Crime Stoppers.
Community in mourning
The killings have devastated the North-East community and the wider force. Funeral arrangements are underway: Senior Constable De Waart is being farewelled today, with Detective Thompson’s service scheduled for 8 September at the Victoria Police Academy, both with full police honours.
How the public can help
- Report any sighting, dashcam footage, or relevant information to Crime Stoppers immediately.
- Do not attempt to make contact with the suspect.
- If you know someone providing assistance, encourage them to speak to police.
For the most current advice and updates relating to this search, visit our website https://www.police.vic.gov.au/porepunkah-shooting-and-search-desmond-freeman-filby
Victoria Police say the $1 million reward — the largest of its kind in the state — will be paid for information that leads to Freeman’s arrest. Tips continue to pour in after earlier public appeals, with detectives reviewing a “remarkable” volume of new material.
This is a developing story. The Australia Today will update as new details are confirmed by authorities.
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