The man charged with the murder of Lucindale police officer Brevet Sergeant Jason Doig was recently found not guilty due to mental incompetence and will not face a criminal trial.

The SA Supreme Court made the ruling after a joint request from both the prosecution and the defence.

Court reports claim the decision was based on an agreement that 27-year-old Jaydn Harley Stimson was suffering from significant mental illness during the time of the incident.

Bvt Sgt Doig was fatally shot 120kms from his home after responding to a call out on a rural property at Senior, north of Bordertown, in November 2023 where Mr Stimson was living.

Accompanying Sgt Doig, Sgt Michael Hutchins was also shot and suffered serious injuries, resulting in Mr Stimson being charged with attempted murder as well as the murder of Sgt Doig.

Responding to the court’s decision, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens issued a media statement.

Mr Stevens said Bvt Sgt Doig’s family had been kept apprised of the discussions between the director of public prosecutions (DPP), Martin Hinton, and counsel for the man charged with the murder and the attempted murder.

“They were advised last month of the decision taken by the DPP and his reasons that the accused’s mental state was such that he was mentally incompetent at the time of the incident,” Mr Stevens said.

He said while the Supreme Court would decide Mr Stimson’s custodial future, it was important to note that the offender had taken responsibility for his actions and admitted he committed the violent acts he was charged with.

“South Australia Police appreciate the significant consideration this matter has been subject to. Regardless of the outcome of this tragedy, it will be of little solace to Jason’s family, friends, and colleagues who still mourn his senseless loss,” Mr Stevens said.

He said Bvt Sgt Doig’s death had a profound impact on his family, the community, and every member of SAPOL.

“This is particularly so amongst his colleagues in the South East of the state, where his loss is still deeply felt. Jason was a valued friend and colleague to many. He was also a respected member of the local community,” Mr Stevens said.

“Jason’s death has also tragically highlighted the dangers frontline police face serving the community each day.”

He said that police officers started their shift not knowing what their day would entail or what possible dangers they may face, but they confronted each tasking, knowing that danger is ever present.

“While police are highly trained for all operational situations, unfortunately, more and more taskings now involve mental illness and have the potential to escalate, just like the incident that claimed Jason’s life,” Mr Stevens said.

“This fact is not lost on every police officer involved in serving their community.”

This article appeared in The Naracoorte News, 30 April 2025.
Related stories: Stimson pleads “not guilty”, Lucindale Station reopens 3 hours a week, United by grief, Fatal shooting