MEDIA RELEASE
Friday 5 June 2026
Warning: The below post contains the name of an Aboriginal young person who has died.
The Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) Limited (ALS) continues to stand in solidarity with the family of Dunghutti teenager Jai Wright as they attend the sentencing of the police officer responsible for his death.
NSW Police sergeant Benedict Bryant will be sentenced today in the District Court of NSW after being found guilty of dangerous driving occasioning death. It was an historic finding – the first time a police officer has been held criminally responsible for the death of an Aboriginal person in a police operation in NSW, as far as the ALS is aware.
Jai was just 16 when he died on 20 February 2022. He has been described by his parents as vibrant, funny, witty, and loved by many. His loss has been devastating for his family and community.
"The ALS has been supporting Jai Wright's family from the days after Jai's passing, throughout the coronial inquest process and the criminal trial of Benedict Bryant. We honour their fight for justice in the face of lengthy delays in charges being laid,” said Sharif Deen, ALS Acting CEO.
“Nothing will bring Jai back, but accountability is important. Today's outcome is an important step for Jai’s family and loved ones in coming to terms with his loss.”
More than 600 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have died in custody and police operations since the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. Jai’s death must be seen in the context of these unacceptable and tragic deaths, many of which were preventable.
