Perth Man Sentenced Over 15 Years for Manslaughter of Police Officer
A Western Australia man, driven by methamphetamine addiction, has been sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for the manslaughter of Constable Anthony Woods following a high-speed pursuit and deliberate act of violence in June 2023. The case has sent shockwaves through the Perth community and sparked renewed debate about the dangers faced by law enforcement.
High-Speed Chase and Fatal Confrontation
Reagan Chown, 25, intentionally reversed a stolen vehicle over Constable Woods at a cul-de-sac in Ascot after a prolonged chase. The pursuit culminated when both vehicles came to a stop, and Constable Woods approached Chown’s car, opening the driver’s side door and deploying his taser. Despite Chown’s initial claim that he lost control of the vehicle after being tasered, Justice Joseph McGrath of the WA Supreme Court determined that Chown “pressed the accelerator prior to tasering.” This finding was critical in establishing intent and securing the conviction.
Justice Delivered: 15 Years Imprisonment
Chown received a 14-and-a-half-year sentence for manslaughter, along with an additional year for reckless driving, and a concurrent 12-month sentence for car theft. Appearing via video link from Albany Regional Prison, Chown listened as the Justice detailed the severity of his crimes. The court heard that Chown was already on bail for a separate drugs charge at the time of the incident, highlighting a pattern of disregard for the law.
A Pattern of Deception and Negligence
The Justice emphasized the “lack of credibility and reliability” of Chown’s testimony throughout the trial. He underscored that Constable Woods “was acting lawfully in the course of his duty” when he attempted to apprehend Chown. The prosecution, led by Justin Whalley, argued that this was a “serious example of criminal negligence manslaughter” and that the sentence needed to serve as a “clear message” to those who attempt to evade or resist police.
From Promise to Tragedy: The Impact of Addiction
While acknowledging Chown’s past – described by his lawyer, Paul Bevilacqua, as coming from a “close and loving family” and having completed an apprenticeship and worked in FIFO roles – the court recognized that drug addiction had fundamentally altered his life. Bevilacqua stated that Chown had become someone “that he wasn’t” as a result of his substance abuse. However, this mitigating factor did not lessen the gravity of his actions.
“His Future Was Taken Away”: A Mother’s Grief
The most poignant moments of the sentencing came from the victim impact statements. Natalie Woods, Constable Woods’ mother, delivered a heartbreaking account of her loss, stating, “He was doing his duty and he was protecting his community and his future was taken away.” She described a profound sense of emptiness, saying her “heart and mind” were no longer whole. Ms. Woods remembered her son as “full of energy and ambition,” certain he would achieve great things, whether as a cricketer or by helping others.
Constable Woods’ widow, Emily, and his mother were present in court for the sentencing. Ms. Woods reiterated the devastating impact of the loss, emphasizing that “each anniversary, birthday and any moment we shared with him is now painful for us.” She recalled her pride when her son decided to become a police officer, knowing he would dedicate himself fully to the role. “His future was taken away,” she repeated, encapsulating the family’s immeasurable grief.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by police officers and the devastating consequences of criminal negligence fueled by addiction.
