Lawyer’s action that of a ‘coward’ SA Breaking News 24/7 - NEWS.com.au
PREMIER Mike Rann said he had “nothing but contempt” for Eugene McGee , after the high-profile criminal lawyer walked free from court. Foreshadowing an announcement early next week, Mr Rann called Mr McGee’s actions in the hit-and-run accident “the worst form of cowardice”. While not saying an appeal would be sought, Mr Rann said he was seeking legal advice on “a number of options”. “Mr McGee, he will be known for one thing and that is the fact that he cowardly walked away from the scene of an accident and left someone to die - this white-feather lawyer,” he said.

“Here is a man who not only ran away from the scene of an accident, but ran away from someone left dying at the side of the road. “There cannot be a worse form of cowardice,” he said. Mr Rann said he would seek legal advice and speak to Attorney-General Michael Atkinson and cyclist Ian Humphrey’s widow, Di Gilchrist, before making a statement next week. When asked if there would be an appeal, Mr Rann said “you have to ask the DPP”. Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Pallaras, QC, who began on Tuesday, said he was “considering the judgment”. However, he was not prepared to give a statement last night.

Independent MP Nick Xenophon, whom the family called for support, said it was a “dark day for justice in SA”. He called on Mr Rann to “match his powerful words with action that will get to the truth of what happened”. “The Humphrey family didn’t deserve this. What has happened has made a mockery of our justice system.” Law Society of SA president Alexander Ward said evidence from Mr McGee’s psychiatrist had been “the key” to the judgment.