Who is Gary Edward Fitzgerald? Former WA Police Officer Faces Trial

PERTH – A former Western Australia police officer, Gary Edward Fitzgerald, is now facing trial at the District Court of Western Australia. The 55-year-old is accused of inappropriate conduct with a 16-year-old girl between 1999 and 2001.

He is charged with five counts of unlawful actions involving a minor under care or supervision.

Alleged Use of Authority

The court heard that Fitzgerald first met the girl when she called police for help after her housemate ran away. He visited her home with another officer. After some casual conversation, he reportedly gave her his contact number.

Prosecutor Danya Borkowski said that soon after, regular meetings began between the two. The girl believed she could not say no to him because he was a police officer.

One incident reportedly took place at the Fremantle Police Station, where Fitzgerald asked the girl to pretend there was a report at a supermarket, so she could come in. The court heard they later spent time in an interview room.

Later, Fitzgerald invited the girl to his house in Samson, according to the prosecution. Another visit happened at a Bull Creek residence.

Courtroom Testimony

The woman, now an adult, appeared via videolink. She told the court she believed she had no choice but to keep contact with Fitzgerald. She explained she thought it was her duty because he was helping her with problems at home.

She said their meetings were not part of a normal relationship. Instead, she said she felt pressure and did not know how to say no due to her age and his role.

Defence Response

Fitzgerald’s lawyer, David McCallum, told the jury that his client believed the young woman was an adult at the time. He also said that Fitzgerald never had any legal authority over her.

The defence argued the case should focus on whether the accused had official supervision or control over the girl during their interactions.

Trial Continues

The trial is still ongoing, and further details will be presented in the coming days. The case has drawn public attention due to the nature of the allegations and Fitzgerald’s former role in law enforcement.