Sisters of Fallen Constable Take Legal Action Against Dezi Freeman; Victoria Police React

Dianne Thompson and Lois Kirk have expressed their dismay to The Herald Sun, stating they were informed about their brother Neal Thompson’s death through a phone call instead of a face-to-face meeting.

Neal Thompson, aged 59, was tragically one of the two officers who lost their lives when Freeman launched a deadly attack and subsequently vanished into the wilderness, successfully evading arrest for seven months.

Victoria Police has acknowledged the concerns raised by Thompson and Kirk and indicated that they responded promptly after receiving a letter from Bush.

In an official statement, Victoria Police assured, “We have maintained consistent communication with the families since the tragic event occurred and have made every effort to keep them informed and ensure support services are available to them.”

The statement further noted, “The Chief Commissioner has personally reached out multiple times to speak with Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson’s partner, the parents of Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, and the officer who was seriously injured during the incident on August 26, 2025.”

“However, we also acknowledge some issues raised by the sisters of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and police have met with them directly as a result of a letter they sent to the Chief Commissioner.”

Victoria Police have appointed the sisters their own police liaison officers from the homicide squad and the local area to update them on the investigation.

The force is in discussions with the pair about any ongoing concerns, but refused to provide further details.

“Victoria Police acknowledges that the past seven months have been an incredibly difficult time following in the incident in Porepunkah, particularly the families of the two police officers killed,” Victoria Police said.

“While every effort is made to provide timely updates to all families involved, we are always conscious of the need to manage ongoing investigations.” 

9news.com.au has contacted the sisters’ lawyer for comment.

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