Impersonator posing as police officer preys on Victorians as two officers mourned

An alleged scammer is preying on communities in Victoria by posing as a police officer to collect donations for the families of two officers killed during a search of a suspect's property in Porepunkah. Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart were shot on August 26 while executing a warrant at the suspect's property in Victoria's high country, and the manhunt for Dezi Freeman has extended into its fourth week. Local residents and businesses in Alpine and Wangaratta regions have reported calls or messages soliciting contributions from people who are told the funds would support the Thompson and de Waart-Hottart families.

Authorities say the scam involves callers who promise a 'business advertisement' in exchange for donations ranging from $500 to $2,500. Victoria Police stress that the only police-recognised fundraiser for officers and their families is Victoria Police Legacy. "Anyone who receives a call like this is urged not to make a payment and instead report the matter to police by calling or visiting their local police station," the police statement read. "Victoria Police can confirm the only police-recognised fundraiser for officers and their families is Victoria Police Legacy." The official Victoria Police Legacy fund has collected nearly $140,000 to date, while a separate fundraiser for Thompson's partner, Lisa Thompson, has raised almost $17,000.

With the scam drawing attention as the search for Freeman continues, Victoria Police reiterated warnings to the public to verify any appeals for money and to use official channels. The investigation unfolds within the broader, ongoing operation described by Acting Deputy Commissioner for Regional Operations Russell Barrett as the largest tactical policing operation in Australia’s history. He said investigators have searched hundreds of properties with and without warrants, combed through abandoned structures and even explored mine shafts, caves and huts as they pursued leads across the Alpine region. A $1 million reward remains in place for information that leads to Freeman's capture.

Meanwhile, the manhunt has extended to remote terrain, including Mount Buffalo National Park, where special operations police were seen patrolling and surveying the area on Wednesday. The national park remains off-limits to the public as authorities continue the search.

Members of the public who have information about the scam or Freeman are urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The case underscores the tension in communities still reeling from the officers' deaths as authorities maintain the pressure on the suspect and warn residents to exercise caution when approached by anyone claiming to be raising money for the families.