Lockyer battle turns dirty
INCUMBENT Lockyer Valley Mayor Steve Jones has been the target of an unsavoury Facebook page which contains distasteful sexual innuendoes and connotations.
Such is the serious nature and content contained on the Facebook page, Toowoomba Police Criminal Investigation Branch are investigating the matter.
The page, which claims to be set up by Cr Jones, contains veiled threats, homosexual overtones and has links to other Facebook pages set up by candidates who are contesting the Lockyer Valley Regional Council elections.
Cr Jones said a certain level of dirty tricks was expected in any election campaign, however a line had been crossed this time.
"It is the most despicable act that I have ever experienced," Cr Jones said.
"What is contained on the page is low, untruthful and total slander.
"You expect some level of tricks in an election campaign, but this type of scenario is overstepping the mark," he said.
Cr Jones said that although the innuendoes and connotations did not largely affect him personally, his family had been left distressed and hurt by the claims made on the Facebook page.
"Ultimately, I do not care what is said about me, but when it starts to affect my family that is simply not on," Cr Jones said.
"I play the game on a fair level and I do not have time for this filthy garbage and claims made by sick individuals."
Cr Jones said he was made aware of the Facebook page on Wednesday and immediately reported the matter to police.
"I have a fair idea who is behind the Facebook page, but that is now a matter for the police," Cr Jones said.
"Ultimately, this level of behaviour is totally pathetic and extremely hurtful."
University of Southern Queensland defamation specialist and law lecturer Craig Burgess said claims made on the Facebook page were grounds for criminal defamation proceedings.
"There is no doubt the Facebook page is extremely offensive," Mr Burgess said.
"In the legal world, there is such a thing called criminal defamation. However, that is a matter for the police to investigate and pursue if they feel it is necessary," he said.
Toowoomba Police District Superintendent Matthew Vanderbyl confirmed a complaint had been received by Cr Jones.
"Police are investigating this serious matter and if an offence is found to have occurred then we will pursue those responsible to the full extent available under the law," SuptVanderbyl said.
