Tragically, Johnston was already under a domestic violence order when he took her life, a grim revelation that underscores the severity of the situation. At the time, he was also on bail, facing serious allegations of sexually assaulting Wilkinson.
During the inquest, counsel assisting, Sarah Lane, indicated that there would be a thorough examination of the police’s adherence to their established procedures and policies. This step is crucial to determine whether any lapses occurred in their handling of the case.
It was revealed that Johnston proactively reached out to officers, anticipating that Wilkinson would soon accuse him of rape. This preemptive contact raises questions about his intentions and the dynamics at play.
Newton highlighted Johnston’s purported concern for the children’s safety, a statement that adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative.
Wilkinson had been classified as a “high-risk aggrieved” individual, prompting the Gold Coast Domestic Violence Prevention Centre to urge law enforcement to initiate a “high-risk response” to ensure her protection. This designation was meant to serve as a critical warning and a call to action, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
Wilkinson was designated as a “high-risk aggrieved” person, while the Gold Coast Domestic Violence Prevention Centre urged police to produce a “high-risk response” to her being in danger.
“(Police) put a high-risk flag on her name and residence,” Newton said.
Wilkinson contacted police on April 1 to report Johnston had breached a protection order after he got a third-party to contact her about returning his property and getting access to the children.
Officers were tasked with responding to Wilkinson’s complaint as a “lower priority” job.
There was no indication her complaint should have been treated as urgent, but the officers making the decision would not be aware of her “high risk” of domestic violence, Detective Inspector Newton said.
The coroner responded: “You are going to have to explain that to me.”
Wilkinson was later accused of “cop shopping” by police, who did not act on her complaints days before her badly burnt body was found outside her home.
The officer who made the comment was later the subject of a disciplinary interview, Detective Inspector Newton said.
“The words to us were not appropriate to be used for a domestic violence situation,” she said.
No officer received disciplinary action as a result of the case but two were given remedial training, Detective Inspector Newton added.
Wilkinson’s body was found outside her home and her killer was found nearby after he collapsed and suffered burns in the fire.
Support is available by calling 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
