Police have responded to the coroner’s findings into the death of three-year-old Lachie Jones, whose body was found in a Gore oxidation pond in January 2019.
In a statement, Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson said: “Police acknowledge the findings by the coroner into the tragic death of three-year-old Lachie Jones who was found deceased in a Gore oxidation pond in January 2019.”
Following the coroner’s direction, Police will now carry out a third investigation into the toddler’s death. Johnson said: “Police will now need to consider the findings and the direction by the coroner for Police to undertake a third investigation. We will work diligently on all aspects we need to undertake to progress that with the appropriate resources and urgency to complete this direction as is required.”
Police extended their sympathies to the family and acknowledged the community impact of the tragedy. “Police want to acknowledge Lachie’s family and the impact his death and the subsequent processes have had on them.”
The public’s support during the initial search was also noted: “Police would also like to take this opportunity to recognise members of the public who came out on the evening Lachie was reported missing and searched for hours. We know that Lachie’s death has also had an impact on them and the wider Gore community.”
Johnson acknowledged that the initial Police response fell short of expectations. “Police have previously acknowledged but reiterate again today that our initial action following Lachie’s death fell short of the high expectations we set for ourselves.”
As a result of the case, Police have made changes to their national policy regarding child deaths. “Police have implemented a national policy change which requires that CIB must be consulted for any death of a baby, child, or young person and where possible attend all scenes. The CIB will also be required to oversee or lead any investigation into the death of an infant or child under 10.”
The statement concluded with continued support for the family: “Our deepest thoughts and sympathies continue to be with Lachie’s family.”