The federal court has dismissed a defamation case brought against former ACT top prosecutor Shane Drumgold by a group of Australian federal police officers. The officers had sought $1.42 million in damages over allegations that Drumgold defamed them in a written complaint concerning their handling of a prosecution.
The court dismissed the case by consent, ordering the applicants to pay Drumgold’s costs of $12,500. Drumgold expressed relief at the outcome and expressed hope for peace for all parties involved.
The defamation claims originated from a complaint made by Drumgold regarding police conduct during the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann. This complaint led to an inquiry and subsequent legal actions.
Drumgold’s successful defense in the defamation case highlights ongoing tensions between legal and law enforcement authorities in high-profile cases.
