Canberra, ACT – Allegations of excessive force by Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers are surfacing in the case of Tayler Christian Hazell, the 32-year-old driver who seriously injured two St Edmund’s College students in March 2025. The claims emerged during Hazell’s sentencing hearing in the ACT Supreme Court this week.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
On March 28, 2025, Hazell crashed a stolen Holden Commodore into two boys, ages 14 and 15, as they walked near St Edmund’s College. Both students sustained severe injuries, with one facing life-threatening conditions and requiring immediate surgery. Hazell attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by members of the public before being taken into custody by ACT police.
Allegations of Extra-Curial Punishment
According to written submissions to the court, Hazell’s lawyer, Sam Lynch of the Aboriginal Legal Service, alleges that after his initial arrest by ACT police, two tactical response members (TRM) from the AFP used excessive force against Hazell. Lynch stated that Hazell was handcuffed and seated when the AFP officers arrived and allegedly put hands around his neck, forcing him to the ground.
Lynch further stated that the initial arrest had been completed by ACT police and was under control when the AFP officers intervened, making their involvement “unnecessary.” Body-worn camera footage from the ACT police officers reportedly captured the incident, including an officer noting the camera was recording while Hazell could be heard screaming.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigations
Crown prosecutor Tamzin Lee acknowledged in court submissions that Hazell was a “victim of unlawful use of force” by members of the AFP Territory Response Group. She stated that this conduct “cannot be protected or endorsed” and has been referred to professional standards for investigation. The AFP confirmed on Thursday, February 19, that its professional standards unit had launched an inquiry, determining that conduct was in breach of AFP standards.
Acting Justice John Burns ordered a redacted version of the arrest footage to be released to the media after it was filed with the Supreme Court on Friday, February 20.
What Happens Next?
Hazell remains in custody awaiting sentencing next month. The court will now consider the alleged extra-curial punishment as a mitigating factor during sentencing. The sentencing could be influenced by the findings of the AFP’s internal investigation. Further legal proceedings related to the alleged police misconduct are also possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries did the boys sustain?
The two boys, ages 14 and 15, suffered serious injuries when they were hit by the stolen Commodore. One boy’s injuries were life-threatening, and both required immediate surgery. One boy had “no skin on his face” and the other had “fingers ripped off.”
What is “extra-curial punishment”?
According to the prosecutor, “extra-curial punishment” refers to unlawful force used against Hazell after his arrest by members of the AFP Territory Response Group.
What has been the response from the AFP?
The AFP’s professional standards unit launched an investigation into the allegations of excessive force and determined that conduct was in breach of AFP’s professional standards.
As the case progresses, will the release of the redacted footage shed further light on the events surrounding Hazell’s arrest and the subsequent allegations of misconduct?
