Standing room only in murder trial of jealous cop

A historic courthouse in Sydney became a packed courtroom as a murder trial of a police officer commenced. The officer, Beau Lamarre-Condon, is accused of murdering an ex-partner, Jesse Baird, and his new partner, Luke Davies, in February 2024. Lamarre-Condon entered their home armed and disguised, allegedly intending to kill Baird and then accidentally kill Davies.

Prosecutors argue that Lamarre-Condon had been manipulating those around him leading up to the killings. Baird's former partner, Corey-Dean Thorpe, testified about the officer's fear and the Instagram ruse he allegedly orchestrated to get Baird's attention. In opening statements, Lamarre-Condon's barrister, John Stratton SC, argued that his client was merely returning to retrieve belongings and wore a disguise to avoid being recognized.

Jurors have heard conflicting accounts, and the defense contends that Lamarre-Condon's actions were those of a panicked man, not a calculated killer. The officers' purchases in the days leading up to the shootings are also under scrutiny, with prosecutors suggesting they indicate a plan to kill. The trial has already moved past its opening week, with jurors witnessing emotional testimony from the families of the victims. The officer, however, remains impassive throughout the proceedings.