The inquest into the Jesse Deacon fatal police shooting has begun, three years after the 43-year-old man with treatment-resistant schizophrenia was killed by New South Wales police in Glebe. The case highlights urgent questions about police response to mental health call-outs.
What Happened on the Night of July 19, 2023?
According to court testimony, three officers responded to a welfare call about a self-harm incident involving cut wrists. They knocked on Jesse Deacon's door at 11:56 pm, kicked it open one minute later, and within seconds, Deacon emerged with a large knife. An officer deployed a Taser, which failed, and less than a second later another officer fatally shot him.
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The court heard that police dispatch incorrectly warned Deacon had HIV and could assault without provocation, but did not include any warnings about his mental health challenges.
Key Failures in the Police Response
The deputy state coroner David O'Neil noted that Deacon belonged to a group of about 30% of people with schizophrenia for whom treatment is incredibly complex. His mother, 82-year-old Judy Deacon, has become a leading advocate for change, representing herself at the inquest.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Response time | Less than 2 minutes from knock to shooting |
| Taser deployment | Failed to deploy |
| Mental health warnings | Not included in police system |
| Incorrect warnings | False HIV and assault risk alerts |
Why This Case Matters
This inquest is a critical moment for police accountability in Australia. Judy Deacon implored the court to ensure any recommendations are listened to, reflecting a broader demand for reform in how officers handle mental health emergencies.
- Police failed to access mental health records before the call-out
- Taser malfunction left lethal force as the only option
- Family advocacy pushes for systemic change
- Inquest recommendations could reshape police training
FAQ
Who was Jesse Deacon?
Jesse Deacon was a 43-year-old man living with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. He was fatally shot by NSW police in Glebe, Sydney, on July 19, 2023, during a welfare check for self-harm.
Why did the police shoot Jesse Deacon?
Police responded to a self-harm call and encountered Deacon with a large knife. After a Taser failed to deploy, an officer shot him less than a second later. The inquest is examining whether the use of lethal force was justified.
What changes is Judy Deacon advocating for?
Judy Deacon wants police to receive mental health training, better access to medical records, and alternatives to lethal force when responding to people in crisis. She is representing herself at the inquest to push for meaningful reform.
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