Not guilty but no compensation

This is a very widespread problem. A prosecution is often a severe punishment in itself but when there is no guilty verdict at the end of it, compensation for that prosecution is rare. Compensation for negligent or corrupt prosecution should at least be allowed

TWO Victorian detectives wrongly branded as drug-dealing cops have lost a civil case against their own ethical standards department and the State Government. Detectives Scott James Poynder and Robert John Sodomaco, who worked in the now disbanded organised crime squad, claimed damages for unlawful arrest and malicious prosecution that resulted from a routine drug raid in 1998.

The civil claim relates to accusations the police officers stole drugs from police custody after they raided two houses in suburban Airport West. The men were charged with drug offences, including trafficking, conspiracy to traffic and stealing cannabis, but the charges were discharged at committal proceedings. Following a four-week civil trial at the Victorian County Court, Judge Ross Howie today dismissed the two police officers' claims for damages. He said the men failed to prove their cases of malicious prosecution and wrongful imprisonment.

Outside the court, Detective Sergeant Poynder said he was shattered. "It's an amazing case, it's taken nine years of our lives and it's a decision that basically says the ethical standards department can do whatever they like," he said. A decision on costs has been reserved.

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(And don't forget your ration of Wicked Thoughts for today)