From today's edition. Ten stories, five minutes, then you are done.

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Russell Beattie pleads guilty to knife threat while on bail

Russell Beattie pleaded guilty to eight charges including threat to kill, motor vehicle theft, and breaching bail conditions.

Why it mattersBail conditions failed to stop serious offending, highlighting potential gaps in the system meant to protect public safety.

AustraliaThis Bendigo case shows how bail conditions can fail to prevent serious crime, affecting community safety in Victoria.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 6 h ago

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✓ Illawarra MercuryPower & Policy

76-year-old convicted of beach indecency avoids jail

Peter Stajonowski, 76, pleaded guilty to indecent exposure and sexual conduct without consent. This happened at Port Kembla Beach in November 2025. Young children were playing nearby in the water. They did not see what happened. He received an 18-month community corrections order instead of jail.

Why it mattersCourts must balance serious offences against an offender's personal circumstances. Public trust in justice depends on how courts handle cases involving children's safety.