Man jailed for death threats to office staff over dermatologist delays
Mark John Rees got 15 months in jail. He harassed MP offices because he could not get a dermatologist appointment.
Mark John Rees called the offices of Rebecca White, Jeremy Rockliff and Gavin Pearce hundreds of times in 2022. Rees also called the health ombudsman and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Rees yelled and swore at staff. Rees was angry because he could not get an appointment with a dermatologist.
The Smithton man had tried for eight years to get treatment for his skin condition. He told a teenage worker in Rebecca White's office that he would come down and kill her.
The 18-year-old told the court she was truly afraid for her safety. Rees used extreme insults when calling some offices.
He called more than 50 times. He would ring from hidden numbers when staff would not answer.
Magistrate Leanne Topfer said he showed little insight into the distress you caused.
- 15 months
- Jail term
- 18 years old when threatened
- Victim's age
Why it mattersMP office staff face serious safety risks from the public with little protection. This case shows how frustration about healthcare can lead to crime.
AustraliaStaff in Australian MP offices and government agencies need better protections when facing threats. Access to medical specialists remains difficult for many Australians.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 39 min ago
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