Authorities are continuing their search for Dezi Freeman, the alleged gunman from Porepunkah, as his social media activity reveals a deep-seated hostility toward law enforcement and government officials. An analysis of Freeman's online presence, particularly on Instagram, shows a pattern of extreme anti-authority sentiments dating back to 2019.
Freeman's Instagram account, which does not bear his name, has been linked to him through various means, including a profile image that matches a previously published photo credited to him. On December 1, 2023, the account posted a vehement comment declaring that police are "the new Gestapo" and should be "preferably incinerated." The comment read, "COPS ARE THE ENEMIES OF HUMANITY. ESPECIALLY HERE IN AUSFALIURE [sic] WHERE THEY HAVE DECLARED WAR ON AUSSIES. COPS ARE THE NEW GESTAPO. THEIR LIVES ARE DEDICATED TO INFLICTING THEIR HATE AND SUPERIORITY COMPLEXES ON OTHERS AND CAUSING AS MUCH HARM, MISERY AND DESTRUCTION AS POSSIBLE. THE ONLY GOOD COP IS A DEAD COP. PREFERABLY INCINERATED š„."
This post came just a day before the alleged killing of two police officers, further raising concerns about Freeman's mindset. Another comment from the same account on August 25, 2025, expressed fears about "Islamic migrants" causing chaos in countries, reflecting a broader pattern of incendiary rhetoric.
Freeman's online behavior aligns with the beliefs of the so-called sovereign citizen movement, which promotes the idea that individuals can reject government authority and laws. Business records indicate that Freeman, who was born Desmond Filby, registered a freelance photography business under the name Dezi Freeman in 2003. The term "Freeman" is often adopted by those in the sovereign citizen movement, although it is unclear if this was Freeman's intention.
In a podcast interview from mid-2019, Freeman claimed to have "arrested" a magistrate and discussed his experiences in court, including a dispute with his neighbors. He stated, "They picked the wrong person to mess with, and I think they're finding that out now." He also advised his wife against paying a speeding fine, labeling it an "unlawful fine," and claimed that compliance with such fines is enforced through police intimidation.
Freeman's social media and podcast history illustrate a profound aversion to state authority, raising alarms about his potential for violence. As police continue their investigation, the insights gleaned from his online activity may provide crucial context to his actions.