The world according to GRP — Tuesday, January 15, 2008:
Good Samaritan shouldn't bite
Police want the "good Samaritan" who rescued "Anna" from a random assault to come forward. He's too smart for that.
Bystanders who intervene in violent incidents are often charged with assault. Even if they are acquitted, they are left with ruined reputations plus massive legal bills that are not recoverable from the State. It is the risk of being charged, not the risk of injury, that deters so many bystanders from "getting involved".
If the police give a legally binding undertaking that the good Samaritan of St Kilda will not be charged, he can come forward. Otherwise he should enforce his right to silence.
Update (Jan.16): He's not so smart after all. The Melbourne Herald Sun reports that "David", the rescuer, has contacted police. That was much braver than the actual rescue.
Copyright © Gavin R. Putland except as otherwise attributed. Posted at The world according to GRP under the title Good Samaritan shouldn't bite. You may republish this item verbatim on your website or blog provided that you include this notice (with hyperlinks).
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