Victoria Police are employing strategic communication techniques in their ongoing search for fugitive Dezi Freeman, who is wanted for the alleged murder of two officers. Freeman, 56, has been on the run since August 26, 2023, following the fatal shootings of Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart, 35, and Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, 59. He is believed to be hiding in the dense bushland near Porepunkah, located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Melbourne.
Despite extensive searches covering over 100 properties in the Alpine region, there have been no confirmed sightings of Freeman since he fled the scene. Police remain hopeful that he is still alive and that individuals in the community may have insights into his whereabouts. The urgency of the situation has prompted both the police force and Freeman’s wife to publicly urge him to surrender. “Your destiny is in your hands,” stated Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush during a press conference in the nearby area of Ovens.
Negotiation Techniques and Communication Strategies
Former hostage negotiator and criminologist Vincent Hurley explained that police utilize straightforward communication tactics when engaging with wanted individuals. This method includes offering clear instructions and maintaining an easy-to-understand dialogue. “It’s as if you’re talking to a 10-year-old,” Hurley remarked, emphasizing the need for concise language to accommodate the mental state of someone in a high-pressure situation, such as Freeman might be experiencing.
Dr. Hurley noted that police could establish contact with Freeman even in the absence of mobile phone service by utilizing loudspeakers or other undisclosed methods. He refrained from sharing specific details, citing concerns that organized crime figures might exploit this information to gain insights into police operations. “I know for a fact, as a negotiator for eight years, underworld figures and organised crime syndicates watch this and take notes,” he mentioned.
Operational Costs and Community Impact
The search operation has mobilized over 400 personnel, with assistance from the Australian Defence Force at the request of Victoria Police. A planning specialist and aerial surveillance assets have been deployed to support the ground teams. Commissioner Bush has committed to updating taxpayers on the total costs associated with the extensive manhunt.
Dr. Hurley speculated that Freeman, who has expressed views aligned with the sovereign citizen movement and is known to be an experienced bushman, may have prepared supplies for his evasion. He suggested that Freeman could be hiding food, water, and other essentials in a sheltered location, such as a cave or rock shelf. This preparation would allow him to remain concealed from authorities while still accessing necessary resources.
Police have considered various investigative options to locate Freeman, including the possibility of offering a financial reward for information leading to his capture. Dr. Hurley cautioned against this approach, suggesting that those who might know Freeman’s whereabouts could share similar beliefs, leading to false leads that would need to be carefully investigated.
As the search continues, Victoria Police remain committed to bringing Freeman into custody while ensuring public safety and maintaining transparency with the community.
