Court documents have revealed that Dezi Freeman, the man at the centre of the Porepunkah shooting investigation, had no prior convictions for violence or firearm-related offences before the tragic incident that shook the rural Victorian community.
The 39-year-old's clean criminal record raises serious questions about Victoria's firearm licensing procedures, as Freeman allegedly held a valid gun licence despite what police describe as "significant mental health concerns" that should have been detected during the application process.
Community in Shock After Rural Tragedy
The quiet town of Porepunkah, nestled in Victoria's alpine region, remains in a state of disbelief following Thursday's events that left multiple casualties. Local residents describe Freeman as a known figure in the community who showed no outward signs of being capable of such violence.
"He was just a normal bloke you'd see around town," one shaken neighbour told reporters. "This has completely blindsided everyone who knew him."
Firearm Licensing Under Scrutiny
Victoria Police confirmed that Freeman's firearm licence was issued through proper channels, having undergone standard background checks and application processing. The revelation has prompted immediate review of the state's gun licensing protocols, with authorities acknowledging potential gaps in mental health assessments.
Chief Commissioner Shane Patton stated: "While all procedures were followed correctly based on available information at the time, we're examining whether our current systems are adequate for identifying potential risks that may not appear in criminal records."
Ongoing Police Investigation
Specialist officers continue to examine the crime scene as the homicide squad leads what has become one of Victoria's most complex investigations in recent years. Police are piecing together Freeman's movements in the days leading up to the shooting and attempting to establish a motive for the attack.
The investigation has expanded to include Freeman's digital footprint, financial records, and interviews with acquaintances to build a comprehensive picture of his state of mind prior to the incident.
As the community begins the long process of healing, questions remain about how someone with no violent criminal history could allegedly commit such a devastating act, putting Victoria's firearm regulations under unprecedented scrutiny.
