Qld: Rallies call for sacking of DPP

AAP General News (Australia)
12-20-2006
Qld: Rallies call for sacking of DPP

BRISBANE, Dec 20 AAP - Rallies will be held across Australia today to call for the
sacking of Queensland's chief prosecutor over her decision not to charge a police officer
over the death of an Aboriginal man in custody.

Queensland Premier Peter Beattie will also travel to Palm Island today to talk with
community leaders about state Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Leanne Clare's decision
last week not to charge Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley with any criminal offences over the
death of Mulrunji Doomadgee.

Mr Doomadgee, 36, died in a police cell in Palm Island following his arrest for public
drunkenness in November 2004.

Ms Clare's decision comes despite a ruling in September by Deputy Coroner Christine
Clements that Mulrunji's fatal injuries were caused by Snr Sgt Hurley.

Ms Clare has insisted there is not enough evidence to support criminal charges.

A rally and march will be held in Brisbane's Queen's Park at midday (AEST), and coincide
with protests in Townsville, Sydney and Melbourne.

Organiser Sam Watson said people were angered over the DPP's decision and were calling
for her sacking.

Meanwhile, Palm Island chief executive Barry Moyle said he expected the Palm Island
community to be peaceful and law-abiding when Mr Beattie visits today.

Mr Beattie will address a rally on Palm Island.

AAP jvb/goc/de

KEYWORD: MULRUNJI DAYLEAD

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