In the realm of bizarre real-life narratives, few stories can rival the surreal drama faced by Perth resident Troy Coward. His investment property, an East Perth apartment, became entangled in a macabre tale that would challenge even the most imaginative Hollywood screenwriter. The murder of Stephen Cookson by Aaron Carlino in December 2012 was not just a heinous crime but a meticulously planned and executed act that left the apartment in a state of devastation. The aftermath of this tragedy has left Coward grappling with the consequences, both financially and physically, as he seeks justice and compensation from the WA Police.
The murder of Stephen Cookson by Aaron Carlino in December 2012 was not just a heinous crime but a meticulously planned and executed act that left the apartment in a state of devastation. The aftermath of this tragedy has left Coward grappling with the consequences, both financially and physically, as he seeks justice and compensation from the WA Police.
The murder was a gruesome affair, with Carlino shooting Cookson twice in the head and then using an angle grinder to dismember his body. The crime scene was left in a state of chaos, with the apartment becoming a macabre canvas of bloodstains and chemicals. The investigation, which lasted three months, involved the use of luminol, a chemical agent that highlights bloodstains, leaving the unit covered in black carcinogenic chemicals and black ink. The police's forensic investigation, while crucial for solving the crime, caused substantial damage to the property, with holes in doors, broken mirrors, and soiled carpets.
The aftermath of the investigation left the apartment in a state of devastation, with Coward and his housemate experiencing health problems. Within a couple of months, they suffered rashes, skin, lung, and eye irritations, and were coughing up blood. Coward believed these symptoms were directly related to the forensic investigation and the chemicals used. A forensic cleaner confirmed the apartment was not safe to live in, emphasizing the toxic nature of the chemicals used during the investigation.
The financial toll of this tragedy was severe. Coward's renovation business and other properties suffered due to the substantial debt incurred from the mortgage payments and the eventual foreclosure by the bank. The property, valued at $549,000 before the murder, was sold for just $200,000, leaving Coward with a significant loss. The WA Police's handling of the situation has been a point of contention, with Coward arguing that they failed to disclose the toxicity of the chemicals used during the investigation. He believes that the police's role in protecting and serving the community should not extend to destroying someone's home and then handing over the keys without proper disclosure.
Coward's quest for justice and compensation has been a long and arduous journey. Over 13 years, he has been advocating for the government to step up and address the losses he incurred, including his health problems. The WA Police's response has been one of silence, with both the police and the state government declining to comment on the matter due to ongoing legal proceedings. Coward's story highlights the complexities of dealing with the aftermath of a violent crime and the challenges of seeking compensation from law enforcement agencies.
This case raises important questions about the responsibility of law enforcement agencies in the aftermath of a crime and the potential long-term consequences for those affected. It also underscores the need for transparency and accountability in such situations. As Coward continues his fight for justice, his story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of crime and the importance of addressing the impact on victims and their communities.
