Officer Fatally Shot During Repossession Service
A man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for the fatal shooting of a police officer who was attempting to serve a repossession notice. Leigh Geoffrey Sushames, 47, received his sentence in the Supreme Court in Burnie, located in north-west Tasmania, on Friday.
The incident occurred on June 16, 2025, when Constable Keith Smith responded to Sushames’ property in North Motton. Constable Smith was there to execute a repossession notice due to years of unpaid mortgage payments.
Prior Knowledge and Fatal Encounter
During a court hearing in May, it was revealed that Sushames had communicated with authorities the day prior to the shooting, indicating he was aware of the impending visit. Evidence presented, including footage from a body-worn camera belonging to Constable Smith’s partner, Sergeant Gavin Rigby, depicted Sushames concealed behind a blue Ford Falcon in a carport, armed with a rifle.
The body camera footage captured Constable Smith’s initial greeting, “How are you mate?” immediately before two gunshots were heard. Investigations confirmed Constable Smith sustained fatal injuries from shots to the back and head.
Threats Made Prior to Incident
Testimony during the court proceedings also indicated that Sushames had previously expressed his intent to harm anyone attempting to repossess his home. A friend of Sushames reportedly heard him state he would “kill anyone” who tried to take his property.
