Key Information
When
3rd December 2026
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Where
Crowther Theatre A3.001, James Cook University, Australia, Cairns, Nguma-bada campus, Smithfield
Cost
$30
Audience
Public and Community
Contact
JCU Events | events@jcu.edu.au
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Behind the Crime takes you behind the scenes and learn how the law and policing procedures work to solve a major crime.
“This case is a powerful reminder that behind every major investigation is a victim whose courage matters. Despite extreme trauma, her actions and the evidence gathered by police were vital in holding this offender to account.”
About the Case
In the early hours of 27 March 2024, a 48-year-old woman was violently attacked inside an industrial shed on Mulgrave Road in Bungalow. Armed and threatening to kill her, the offender commenced a terrifying, prolonged attack which triggered a dynamic police response. As officers mobilised, the incident rapidly unfolded into a major police operation across Cairns. This highly motivated offender hid from police, stole a marked police vehicle, threatened officers, and began a dangerous joyride before a dramatic conclusion.
This presentation takes the audience behind the scenes of a major criminal investigation, from the first emergency call and crime scene examination through to the identification, arrest and prosecution of a violent high-risk offender.
Hear directly from the investigator who led the case, as local police and prosecutors explain how evidence, CCTV, witness accounts, and forensic work came together to bring the matter before the court.
Presentation Details
- Speakers: Child Protection and Investigation Unit Detective Sergeant Wendy MacRae, Forensic Scientist Vanessa Lobegeier, Ethical Standards Command Detective Sergeant Adam Spinks, and Principal Crown Prosecutor Seamus McManus.
- Conditions: Cameras, mobile phones, videos and other audio and visual recording devices are not permitted. These presentations could contain adult themes, therefore children (under the age of 18), are not recommended to attend.
Supporting those who support us: Community Supporting Police Inc. is a registered charity which has been supporting the Queensland Police Service, its members, and their families since 1991.
Branches of Community Supporting Police Inc. operate in Brisbane, Cairns, Mareeba, Townsville, Rockhampton, and Toowoomba.
The work undertaken by members of the regional branches assist Community Supporting Police to achieve the organisations goals and objectives.
The organisation through its continued good work provides both financial and physical support to all members of the police family in ties of trauma and stress.
Behind the Crime is an initiative of the Far North District Community Supporting Police Inc. and the Queensland Police Service – Far North District, Far Northern Region.