NSW: DPP overrules trial decision over police Shootout = 2

AAP General News (Australia)
12-15-1999
NSW: DPP overrules trial decision over police Shootout = 2

In her ruling, Ms O'Shane said the two constables had been harassing Kanaan and three
other young men when they chased them early on December 23.

Despite it later becoming clear the group had some criminal intent that night, she
said police had no lawful reason to stop them at the time.

The committal had been told that after seeing the police, the men - who had guns in
the car - turned into a dead-end street at Paddington near the White City tennis centre
and fled the car.

In the ensuing shootout, Const Patrech was wounded, while Kanaan - who attended court
in a wheelchair due to the fractures he received - was shot seven times.

The hearing was told the bullets that struck Const Patrech could not be identified.

Ms O'Shane said it was stupid, reckless and foolhardy for the officers to chase the
men for no good reason, comments which provoked an outcry from the New South Wales Police
Association.

AAP mss/tsm/cjh/br

KEYWORD: KANAAN 2 SYDNEY

1999 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.