IN THE LINE OF DUTY • by Karen Uttien

The Shire of Loretto – Gavin Road Police Station
10th December 2022, 9:45 AM

“His English was basic but he was an excellent worker.  Here from India on a temporary 482 visa. Brought to us by his brother, Arjit, who also works for the company,” Mr. Richardson explained to the officer.  

“Can you confirm Mr. Singh was given adequate training?”

“Yes, all our employees are given thorough training and signed off by two superiors.”

“And can you confirm the company’s safety policy?” 

“Safety of our staff is paramount — we have a 42-page guide.”

“And did Mr. Singh read the guide?”

“Yes, he signed off on it.” 

“So, he was aware he could have given an estimated meter reading for this residence?”

“Yes.”

Mr. Deepak Singh was pronounced dead on arrival at Sir Franklin Gardiner Hospital on Friday, 9th December 2022 at 3.43pm.

***

10th December 2022, 11:00 AM

John Radley sat holding his head in his hands, rocking back and forth to ease the pain.

“I had signs everywhere.  On the gate.  The front door.  The garage.”

“We understand, but a man died today.”

“My wife was scared to death of being left alone. Even in the daytime, let alone at night.  Crime is rampant, we’ve been broken into so many times.  Please, I beg you.”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Radley. Truly I am.” 

Rex Radley was humanely euthanised on Saturday, 10th December 2022 at 2:04 PM


Born in Nandi Hills — yes, the cradle land of Kenyan running — but no, her British/Dutch ancestry did not entitle her to the Nandi legs she assumed were a birth-right. But still — the Swinging Safari lifestyle rendered a wonderful childhood in the 70s. Karen Uttien now lives in Western Australia enjoying life by the beach with her husband and Bonnie the dog. She has taken time out from her ‘office job’ to pursue her passion for writing and hopes to entertain you for a while.


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