Attorney-General for the State of Qld v Friend

The Attorney-General for the State of Queensland brought this case against Friend, who was deemed a dangerous sexual offender. The central issue was whether Friend, who had a moderate risk of reoffending, should be granted interim release due to delays in the trial of his alleged contraventions. The matter was heard in the Queensland Court of Appeal. The court needed to determine whether the risk assessment reports and the delay in trial constituted exceptional circumstances warranting interim release.

The court examined the risk assessment reports indicating a moderate risk of reoffending. It also considered the significant delays in the trial of the alleged contraventions. The court weighed these factors against the need for public safety and the interests of justice. It concluded that the risk assessments and delays, while concerning, did not constitute exceptional circumstances warranting interim release. The court held that the risk to public safety and the need for finality in the trial process outweighed the reasons for release.

In dismissing the application for interim release, the court emphasised the importance of the risk to public safety and the necessity of finalising the trial proceedings. The court was not persuaded that the circumstances were exceptional enough to justify interim release. The application was dismissed, and Friend was to remain in custody pending the outcome of the trial.