Decision postponed for off-duty constable Cassandra Joy Richardson over double-fatal crash

On the same day a Hobart magistrate was expected to hand down a decision, lawyers for an off-duty constable have made an eleventh-hour push in her case. What happened >

Tasmania Police constable Cassandra Joy Richardson, 26, has been charged with negligently causing the roads deaths of mother and son, Teresa and Jim Brown, at Penna on May 10, 2022. Picture: Amber Wilson

Lawyers for a Tasmania Police constable accused of causing the road deaths of a mother and son by negligent driving have made a last-ditch attempt in her defence, the same day she was due to receive a Hobart magistrate’s decision.

Cassandra Joy Richardson, 26, previously pleaded not guilty to charges relating to a crash that claimed the lives of Teresa and Jim Brown near Richmond on May 10 in 2022.

Teresa and Jim Brown.

Ms Richardson, who was off-duty at the time of the crash, faces charges of two counts of causing death by negligent driving, one count of driving without due care and attention, one count of driving while disqualified, and two counts of contravening vehicle standards.

Ms Richardson and her defence team were due to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court on Wednesday, however the matter was postponed when a a Form 40 was lodged.

A form 40 requires consent from the Magistrate to receive an adjournment on a criminal matter.

Other arguments and exhibitions are expected to be tendered during this adjournment if granted.

The fatal crash occurred at Brinktop Rd, Penna when Tasmania Police reported at the time they believed a “car may have crossed to the incorrect side of the road for an unknown reason”.

Ms Richardson will return to court next week for legal arguments on August 28.