NT Police officer Karl Bauman to contest fraud charges in Darwin Local Court

A police officer who mediated gang violence, stopped runaway trucks and was praised for his ‘diligent service’ has been charged with fraud.

A Northern Territory police officer praised for his “integrity” and “diligence” on the front line has been charged with fraud.

Senior Constable First Class Karl Gordon Bauman stood before Judge Tanya Fong Lim in Darwin Local Court on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old cop was given a notice to appear in August after being charged with one count of obtaining benefit by deception.

If found guilty, this charge carries a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.

In his first mention hearing, which lasted just three minutes, his barrister Mary Chalmers indicated Bauman would be fighting the allegations.

Ms Chalmers asked the court for a directions hearing date to allow the highly-decorated officer to contest the charges.

“There are some representations with the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions), our preference is to simply adjourn,’ she said.

NT Police officer Karl Gordon Bauman, left, with barrister Mary Chalmers at Darwin Local Court on October 4.

According to NT Police annual reports, Bauman has been with the force for more than 15 years and has been given awards and letters of recognition over his time on the front line.

Bauman was stationed in Wadeye in 2006 when gang-related violent unrest broke out, forcing residents to flee the remote West Daly community.

He was among five officers given a Certificate of Appreciation and high praise from the then Police Commissioner Paul White.

NT Police officer Karl Bauman is facing fraud charges.

“As Wadeye police officers you responded tactfully and with considerable restraint,” Mr White said at the time.

“Your overall effort in restoring peace and good order to the Wadeye community reflects highly on your integrity as police officers and the reputation of the Northern Territory Police Force.”

The next year Bauman was given a letter of recognition for stopping a runaway truck and freeing the driver at Wadeye in 2007.

Bauman was given the National Medal in 2020, to recognise his “diligent service” over 15 years on the force.

Judge Fong Lim adjourned the hearing until October 31.

If represented, Bauman was not required to appear for the next court date, which falls on Halloween.

In August, a Police, Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said the fraud allegation was under investigation by the Professional Standards Command.

Originally published as NT Police officer Karl Bauman to contest fraud charges in Darwin Local Court