In an emotionally charged exclusive from the quiet town of Porepunkah, Dezi Freeman has spoken publicly for the first time since her son, Koah Freeman, was charged with the murder of a Victorian police officer. The mother's account paints a picture of a young man failed by the system, battling severe mental health demons.
A Mother's Heartbreak in Porepunkah
From her home in Porepunkah, a small community north-east of Melbourne, Dezi Freeman described the past week as a 'living nightmare'. Her 22-year-old son, Koah, stands accused of the murder of a police officer in the Victorian town of Wangaratta, a charge that has sent shockwaves across Australia.
'My boy is not a monster,' Ms. Freeman stated, her voice trembling with emotion. 'He is a very sick young man who needed help that never came.'
Mental Health Crisis and Systemic Failure
The distraught mother revealed that her son had been grappling with severe mental health issues for years, including diagnoses of ADHD and autism. She claims she repeatedly sought help from medical professionals and social services, warning them that her son was a danger to himself and others.
'I told them, I begged them,' she recounted. 'I said if you don't help him, someone will get hurt. And now look what's happened.'
Ms. Freeman alleges that despite her persistent warnings, the system failed to provide adequate care or intervention for her son's deteriorating condition.
The Tragic Events in Wangaratta
Koah Freeman appeared via videolink from custody at Melbourne's Bright courthouse, where the murder charge was formally read. The alleged incident occurred when police responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle in Wangaratta, leading to the tragic death of an officer.
The community has rallied around both the fallen officer's family and the Freeman family, highlighting the complex tragedy that has unfolded.
A Nation Grapples With Mental Health and Justice
This case has ignited urgent discussions about Australia's mental health services and their intersection with the justice system. Mental health advocates are calling for:
- Better funding for mental health crisis intervention
- Improved coordination between medical services and law enforcement
- Earlier intervention programs for at-risk youth
- Enhanced support for families dealing with mental health crises
As Koah Freeman remains in custody awaiting further proceedings, his mother's words echo through the Victorian countryside: 'This isn't just our tragedy. This is a system's failure. And until we fix it, there will be more families like ours.'
