Information for media
Latest news
Media Statement – Decision not to directly indict William Swale
On 19 September 2024, the Magistrates’ Court found that there was insufficient evidence to commit Mr Swale to stand trial. Two medical experts gave evidence
Media statement – Matter of William Swale
The Office of Public Prosecutions acknowledges the decision of Magistrate Guillaume Bailin not to commit Mr William Swale for trial over the tragic crash in
Information the OPP will provide to media
OPP staff, Crown Prosecutors, and counsel briefed by the OPP will, on request:
- confirm facts that have been presented in open court
- provide information as set out below.
While a case is before the court
- Charge sheets
- Indictments
After the appeal period
- Charge sheets
- Indictments
- Photographs
- Crime scene footage
- CCTV
The information in the table above will not be provided if it may:
- prejudice any current or future court case
- interfere with an ongoing investigation
- put the safety of any person at risk
- disclose police methodology
- breach any statutory provision or court order
- interfere with the privacy rights of a third party
- embarrass or cause distress to a victim or a family member of a victim
or if the information:
- is offensive or distressing
- would require unreasonable editing prior to release
or if:
- the DPP considers that it is not in the public interest to provide the information.
Media representatives should contact the relevant court or the Victorian Government Recording Service (VGRS) to request transcripts.
Media representatives may also apply to the relevant court for access to information that has been tendered into evidence or is otherwise on the court file.
Media enquiries
Office of Public Prosecutions
565 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Email media@opp.vic.gov.au