Ex bikie ‘denied rights’

POLICE allegedly denied a former Finks bikie club president his rights after he was arrested following a brawl at Broadbeach.

Ben Williamson, 27, was in April charged with affray after allegedly getting into a fight with several men in a park near Moo Moo Bar and Grill in the early hours of the morning.

Defence lawyer Danielle Heable, of Havas and Dib Lawyers, said during the last court appearance for the matter there were “several issues with the case” including the fact Williamson was allegedly told by police he could not speak with his lawyer.

It is claimed Willamson, who is fighting the charges, was also cuffed and put in the back of a police vehicle about 2am on April 30 and asked a question by the arresting offi- cer without being advised of his right to silence.

It’s claimed he asked to phone his lawyer before being told: “Not right now.”

Police are believed to have continued to speak to Williamson in the back of the van for several minutes before allegedly telling him a second time he could not speak with a lawyer and to “shut up”.

Williamson spent a night in the Southport Watchhouse and claims he was denied the opportunity to make phone calls during that time.

The Queensland Police Service declined to comment while the matter was “before the courts”.

“Anyone who wishes to make a complaint in relation to an employee of the Queensland Police Service can do so through via the online complaint form, Policelink or at their local station,” a spokeswoman added.