DPP to appeal the sentence of Raina Jane Cruise, who scalped a pregnant police officer
The state’s top legal officer has lodged an appeal over a “manifestly inadequate” sentence for an anti-vaxxer who scalped a pregnant police officer.
Police & Courts
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The state’s top legal officer has lodged an appeal after an anti-vaxxer who scalped a pregnant police officer escaped with a suspended sentence.
On Friday, Attorney-General Kyam Maher announced the Director of Public Prosecutions would appeal the sentence of Raina Jane Cruise.
Cruise was found guilty at trial of intentionally causing harm to Constable Anthea Beck – along with two hotel security guards – on October 17, 2021.
The District Court last week deemed her crimes inexcusable and worthy of a three-year, eight month sentence – but it was ultimately suspended to allow the 39-year-old to seek mental health help.
Mr Maher said the DPP deemed the sentence “manifestly inadequate” and in conflict with community expectations.
“Police officers put themselves on the line every single day of the week to protect us,” he said.
“In this case, the DPP has decided that they will appeal on the grounds the sentence that was handed down manifestly inadequate.
“I think many in the community will be very supportive of the decision to appeal the sentence that was handed down.”
Cruise’s sentence was widely condemned, including by SA Police.
Mr Maher said authorities were committed to ensuring the safety of frontline workers.
He said: “Depending on what happens after the appeal, we will have a look to see if the legislation and the range of sentences that can be applied meet community expectations”.
Opposition police spokesman Jack Batty welcomed the decision to appeal.
“We have been calling for this for the past week,” he said.
“Our police put their lives on the line every day to protect us. They should not be treated as punching bags.”
He said it was time the government made sure the “appropriate penalties were applied”.
“We need to show police officers we’ve got their back,” he said.
“We must send a message to violent offenders that this type of behaviour is unacceptable and will not go unpunished.”
The appeal will be heard early next year.
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