IGADF clears Brereton inquiry despite trauma to veterans
An official review cleared Paul Brereton's investigation into 25 soldiers despite psychological harm to veterans.
The Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force cleared Paul Brereton, an Army Reserve judge who led an investigation into war crimes in Afghanistan. The review was not reported before but was dated July 15 and published quietly in August.
His questioning came close to the limit on a very small number of times but was always polite. Veterans including Commando captain Heston Russell reported the process left them on the brink of emotional collapse.
The report recognized possible mental health problems. It said the subject matter was very serious and interviews had to go forward.
Brereton's investigation led to charges against former SAS soldiers Oliver Schulz and Ben Roberts-Smith. Both men deny executing prisoners.
- four and a half years
- Investigation duration
- 25
- Soldiers investigated
- July 15, published August
- Report published
Why it mattersThe report provides official backing for an investigation that caused veterans psychological harm. It leaves key questions about fair process in military investigations unresolved.
AustraliaThis affects Australian servicemembers and the standards military investigations must meet when questioning current and former defence personnel in Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 d ago
