Petition

The petition of citizens of Queensland draws to the attention of the
House the horrific circumstances surrounding the murder of Deidre
Kennedy, and the pain and suffering endured by the Kennedy family for 30
years because of the double jeopardy principle enshrined in the Criminal
Code Act (Qld) 1899.

The petitioners therefore request the House to: conduct a review of
double jeopardy laws in the State of Queensland; pass legislation
providing discretionary power for the Attorney-General to set aside
double jeopardy provisions in exceptional circumstances. The effect of
which would allow for a further trial based on new evidence by way of
technological developments in the area of DNA or other exceptional
circumstances the Attorney-General deems appropriate; recognise that the
double jeopardy principle is outdated and that technological advancements
provide courts with evidence that may not have been available previously;
and ensure that public confidence in the integrity of the legal system is
restored by recognising that where a crime is committed, it is the right
of the victim or the victim’s family to seek justice through the court.