Orange, New South Wales – Leroy Wilton, a 35-year-old New Zealand citizen, has been involved in a series of criminal activities in Australia, including substance abuse and violence against women. Wilton’s most recent offense involved a brutal attack on his partner in the town of Orange, New South Wales, resulting in the cancellation of his visa and a deportation order back to New Zealand by immigration authorities in March 2023.
During the attack, Wilton accused his partner of infidelity and physically assaulted her, causing significant harm. This incident, along with his history of domestic violence and other criminal offenses, raised concerns about his ability to abide by the law and stay off drugs. Despite these concerns, Wilton appealed to a tribunal to allow him to remain in Australia, citing mental health issues and personal struggles.
The tribunal considered Wilton’s criminal history and the potential risk of reoffending, particularly in cases of family violence. While Wilton’s family provided emotional testimony in his defense, highlighting their own struggles with drug addiction and the impact of his deportation on them, the tribunal ultimately decided to revoke the cancellation of his visa, allowing him to stay in Australia.
Wilton assured the tribunal that he is now drug-free and committed to mental health treatment, hoping to turn his life around. The decision sparked mixed reactions, with some emphasizing the need to prioritize the safety of the community and prevent further harm, while others empathized with Wilton’s personal challenges and the impact on his children and family.
Overall, the case of Leroy Wilton sheds light on the complexities of dealing with individuals with a history of violence and substance abuse, raising important questions about rehabilitation, community safety, and the balancing of personal struggles with accountability for criminal actions. The decision to allow Wilton to remain in Australia reflects a nuanced approach to addressing such complex issues in the justice system.