Arabic version: رقيب شرطة تاسمانيا راقب زوجته باستخدام نظام داخلي
A Tasmania Police sergeant has been found guilty of using an internal dispatch system to extensively monitor his wife, also a police officer, in a case of family violence that spanned 15 months. The court heard that Chris Cupit, 42, engaged in relentless emotional abuse and intimidation, leaving the victim feeling trapped and fearing for both her safety and career. According to ABC News, Cupit logged into the emergency services internal dispatching system, known as ESCAD, not for operational purposes but to track his wife’s movements during her shifts.
The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of Cupit’s behavior, which included making threats against police colleagues and accessing the dispatch system from home to monitor his wife’s work roster. Text messages presented in court displayed Cupit’s aggressive demeanor, with threats of violence against both his wife and her colleagues. He was arrested on April 30, 2023, after the Professional Standards investigation began.
Cupit pleaded guilty to one count of emotional abuse or intimidation and was subsequently placed on a 12-month community corrections order that included 50 hours of community service. His conduct escalated over time, culminating in direct threats and property damage, as well as intimidation towards his wife.
In her victim impact statement, the wife expressed her fear for her safety and career, emphasizing the psychological toll of the abuse. The court noted that while emotional abuse does not leave physical marks, it can lead to significant psychological trauma.
In sentencing, Chief Magistrate Catherine Geason acknowledged the severity of Cupit’s actions and the need for a conviction to reflect the seriousness of the offense. A family violence order has been issued, preventing Cupit from contacting the victim or engaging in further abusive behavior. Tasmania Police has since reviewed and updated its policies regarding the use of information systems in light of this case.
