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Former Nationals Candidate Charged over Death of Teacher
Prosecutors say mapping data, forensic analysis and DNA link Ben Simpkins to the crash, and he faces up to 20 years in prison.
- On Wednesday, Benjamin Thomas Simpkins, a former Nationals candidate, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court charged over the death of Luke Russell, a high school teacher in Katanning last week.
- Police allege the 26-year-old Simpkins struck Russell on Marri Road on May 13 before driving 65 km to work without stopping to assist, leaving the victim suffering "catastrophic" injuries.
- Forensic analysis of Simpkins' Toyota Hilux revealed Russell's DNA after the accused allegedly cleaned the vehicle; text messages show Simpkins denied having "seen the murder scene" when messaged by an associate.
- Prosecutors told the court Simpkins held a suspended license at the time of the incident; the magistrate refused bail due to the strength of the prosecution's case.
- Facing up to 20 years in prison if found guilty of three charges, Simpkins is scheduled to return to court on June 17 for further proceedings.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left2Leaning Right3Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution43% Right
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources lean Right
43% Right
L 29%
C 28%
R 43%
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