Two Sentenced to Life for Brutal Murder of Aboriginal Teenager

A court has sentenced Jack Brearley and Brodie Palmer to life in prison for their roles in the fatal assault of Cassius Turvey, who died from head injuries following a brutal attack in Perth in October 2022. The incident triggered widespread protests and vigils, with many calling attention to the underlying issues of racism in Australia. Judge Peter Quinlan described the murderers as "callous and lacking in empathy," asserting that they had violently pursued and beaten the innocent Noongar Yamatji teen with a metal pole. Co-defendant Mitchell Forth received a 12-year sentence for manslaughter. The courtroom erupted in cheers as the sentences were announced, while Cassius's mother, Mechelle Turvey, expressed her heartbreak. Prosecutors highlighted that the attack stemmed from a misguided retaliation unrelated to Cassius. Despite their claims of self-defense, the judge dismissed their arguments and condemned their actions, emphasizing the fear instilled in the Aboriginal community.

In a moving victim impact statement, Cassius's mother lamented the loss of her son, calling his death a violent tragedy. While the judge acknowledged the attackers' inflammatory language, he did not formally find it to be racially motivated but noted that it created fear within the community.