Saturday, December 4, 2010

Australia, Anti-bikie laws 'skewed in favour of police'

OFF THE WIRE
Source: abc.net.au
The High Court in Canberra has heard that the New South Wales anti-bikie laws are secretive and skewed in favour of police.
The court is hearing a challenge to the New South Wales Criminal Organisations Control Act which allows a Supreme Court Judge to effectively outlaw any group suspected of criminal behaviour.
The challenge was brought by Derek Wainohu, a long-time member of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang.
His legal team have argued that the laws are invalid and underminde the integrity of the Supreme Court
The challenge comes mid-way through legal action in New South Wales brought by police to declare the Hells Angels a criminal organisation.
Mr Wainohu's legal team argued that much of the evidence in that hearing, including 35 volumes of police intelligence, has been kept secret and the Judge would not have to give any reasons for his decision and that is a breach of civil liberties.