Leigh Geoffrey Sushames, 47, has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for the killing of Constable Keith Smith, who was shot and killed on June 16, 2025, while attempting to serve a repossession notice at Sushames' property in North Motton, Tasmania.
The sentencing took place on Friday in the Supreme Court in Burnie. Constable Smith, 57, had gone to Sushames' home because the property owner had not paid his mortgage for several years. Court proceedings revealed that Sushames had been in contact with authorities the day prior and was aware of the impending visit.
Footage from a body-worn camera belonging to Constable Smith's partner, Sergeant Gavin Rigby, showed Sushames concealed behind a vehicle in the carport, armed with a rifle. The encounter concluded with two gunshots heard immediately after Constable Smith asked, "How are you mate?" The officer died at the scene, and Sushames was subsequently taken into custody.
Justice Tamara Jago characterized the shooting as a "premeditated, intentional killing" of an officer who had no opportunity to defend himself against "murderous intent." The judge further described Sushames' actions as "callousness… almost beyond comprehension for any person with a decent sense of morality" and "the gravest of criminal conduct."
Prior to the incident, Sushames had reportedly told a friend that he would "kill anyone" who attempted to repossess his home, according to court testimony. Constable Smith was struck by gunshots to the back and head.