Daniel Keneally, the son of former New South Wales premier and federal senator Kristina Keneally, has been found guilty of fabricating evidence that led to the wrongful imprisonment of a man. The 25-year-old was convicted in the Downing Centre district court on Tuesday after writing a statement containing numerous falsehoods. Magistrate Rodney Brender dismissed claims from Keneally’s lawyer that it was an honest mistake. The incident in question occurred when Keneally, who was a police officer at Newtown police station, received a call from Luke Brett Moore in February 2021.
Keneally’s statement, which he now admits to writing under pressure from higher-ranking officers, resulted in Moore being arrested and held in custody for three weeks. However, Moore was later released on bail and the charge against him was dropped after a recording of the conversation made on his phone revealed significant discrepancies between what Keneally had claimed and what had actually transpired. Notably, Keneally had falsely accused Moore of threatening to kill a police officer.
In his ruling, Magistrate Brender stated that the conversation as recorded by Keneally just didn’t happen and found that he was aware of the potential consequences of fabricating evidence against someone regarding a threat to a police officer. Keneally will be sentenced on December 21 but will remain on bail until then.
Following the guilty verdict, Keneally’s lawyer, Paul McGirr, declared that his client maintains his innocence and plans to appeal the decision. McGirr argued that Keneally did not knowingly include false information in his statement. However, the prosecution will need to meet a high burden of proof to prove otherwise.
As this case unfolds, it raises concerns about the integrity of the justice system and the actions of law enforcement officers. The incident sheds light on the potential consequences when fabrication of evidence occurs, and the impact it has on individuals who find themselves wrongfully imprisoned.
It is essential that all individuals, including those in positions of authority, uphold the principles of truth and justice. The court’s decision highlights the importance of fair and accurate testimony, as well as the need for transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. As the legal process continues, it remains to be seen how this case will influence perceptions and discussions surrounding the criminal justice system in New South Wales.
