A Western Australian mother, accused of misappropriating the vast majority of a compensation payment awarded to her son for his heroism during the deadly 2016 Dreamworld disaster, has been declared unfit to ever stand trial.
A Tragic Day at Dreamworld and a Teen's Heroism
The case stems from the horrific incident on the Thunder River Rapids Ride at the Gold Coast theme park in 2016. Thomas William Hanson was just 16 years old and on holiday with his mother, Michelle Lisa Hanson, when he boarded one of the rafts. Moments later, the raft collided with another, causing one to overturn and hurl passengers into the water and onto a conveyor belt below.
In the midst of the chaos that claimed four lives, the teenage boy sprang into action. He managed to pluck an infant from the dangerous machinery and passed the baby to his mother, who was still in the queue. While Thomas was physically injured, he was also left deeply traumatised by the events he witnessed.
Shocking Allegations Emerge
In a development that shocked the community, his mother, Michelle Lisa Hanson, was charged with stealing in 2021. The allegations stated that she received a total compensation payment of $179,000 on her son's behalf. However, she allegedly kept almost $155,000 for herself, lying to him about the total amount he was supposed to receive, a Perth Magistrates Court hearing was told in 2022.
A seven-day jury trial was scheduled for the District Court of WA in March of this year, but it did not proceed. The case took a significant turn this week.
Cognitive Deficits Halt Legal Proceedings
On Wednesday, the State conceded that Ms Hanson was "unfit and will never become fit" to stand trial. This conclusion came after prosecutors met with neuropsychologist Mandy Vidovich and accepted the expert opinion detailed in her report.
Judge Darren Renton stated, "Ms Hanson does indeed suffer a number of difficulties that would prevent her from being able to properly engage in the trial." He outlined her challenges, which include:
- A receptive language impairment
- Evidenced memory difficulties
- Problems with sustaining attention and managing information
"There would be problems for her understanding and recalling legal proceedings," the judge said. "Ms Hanson is considered unable to properly defend the charge given her marked language impairment and additionally evidenced cognitive deficits. She'll be at a significant disadvantage with respect to understanding and communicating a defence strategy."
Despite nominal trial dates being pencilled in for June, the case was adjourned until May 4. On that date, the parties will confirm if a special proceeding will be pursued. Ms Hanson, who attended court in a wheelchair, had her bail renewed.
Her son, Thomas Hanson, was formally recognised for his brave actions at last year's Australian Bravery Decorations ceremony at Government House in Perth.
