A major hunt is continuing in the Australian state of Victoria for a man accused of shooting dead two police officers on his semi-rural property, and injuring a third.
Police have confirmed that they are searching for Dezi Bird Freeman, a conspiracy theorist and self-described 'sovereign citizen' who rejects government and law.
Freeman, 56, has a long history with the police, and his hatred of authority has been well documented in online posts, videos, and court documents.
He has called police 'terrorist thugs', compared them to Nazis, and tried to arrest a magistrate during court proceedings.
Less than a week before the shooting, his wife expressed concerns about his behavior, which locals noted had become increasingly erratic during the COVID pandemic. Freeman developed a public profile through his anti-lockdown stances, refusing to comply with restrictions and voicing distrust in government directives.
Freeman identifies as a 'sovereign citizen,' a movement that gained traction during the pandemic, with members often believing they are exempt from government authority. Reports indicate an increase in violent incidents connected to this ideology.
On one occasion, Freeman attempted to have the state premier tried for treason and has repeatedly exhibited contempt for legal authority. He described an altercation with police officers as akin to being assaulted by Nazis, encapsulating his extreme views on law enforcement.
The manhunt for Freeman continues as police anticipate challenges because of his familiarity with the bushland surrounding his home. He is reportedly armed with weapons acquired from the officers he allegedly shot.
The Freeman family had established themselves as part of the local community, contributing positively before Freeman's radicalization. This story reflects on the intersections of conspiracy theories, personal grievances, and the repercussions that can manifest in violent ways within society.
