Story one of ten today, about five minutes for the lot

Law Courts of the Australian Capital Territory building, modern white facade with signage visible

Court drops charges against four teens over police delay

An ACT magistrate stopped charges against four boys aged 14-16. Police took up to 15 months to bring them to trial, even though they finished most investigative work by late 2024.

Why it mattersThe ruling shows courts will stop cases when police delays harm a young defendant's ability to defend themselves.

AustraliaThis ACT court decision strengthens protections for teenagers facing criminal charges in Australia, ensuring police must progress cases promptly or risk having charges dropped entirely.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 4 d ago

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File image: Black and white photograph of formal courtroom interior with benches, tables, and architectural details

✓ Illawarra MercuryPower & Policy

Judge warns drink-driver it was 'pure luck' nobody died in crash

Mariah Grace Bell, 18, crashed into four parked cars. She was over three times the legal drink-driving limit.

Why it mattersThe case shows how quickly drink-driving can end in tragedy. It explains why learner drivers face strict rules about supervision and sobriety.