Perth, Australia — A 45-year-old man, accused of participating in a violent home invasion, is facing new legal troubles just days after being released on bail, a situation that has revived concerns about the management of detainees following a controversial immigration ruling. Majid Jamshidi Doukoshkan, one of four men charged in the 2024 robbery of Ninette and Philip Simons in their Girrawheen residence, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated burglary and aggravated assault with intent to rob.
Doukoshkan’s release comes after he was previously detained at Yongah Hill Detention Centre. This detention followed a landmark decision by the High Court in November 2023 that deemed the indefinite detention of individuals unable to be deported as unlawful. Following this ruling, the Albanese government expedited legislation to allow for electronic monitoring of released detainees in an effort to enhance public safety.
However, Doukoshkan quickly violated the terms of his home detention bail, failing a drug test just six days post-release. He admitted to using methamphetamine and was subsequently returned to custody. This decision to release him has raised alarms about the potential risks posed by individuals with violent pasts.
During a recent court appearance, Doukoshkan’s lawyer, Hamish Glenister, argued for his client’s release, contending that the evidence against him was circumstantial at best. “There is no forensic evidence linking him to the crime scene, and the victims have not been able to identify him,” Glenister stated. He added that the case against Doukoshkan is weak, suggesting there is a genuine possibility of acquittal.
However, Judge Karen Shepherd expressed serious reservations about granting Doukoshkan bail again, emphasizing the gravity of the accusations. She pointed to the violent nature of the home invasion, which involved forceful restraint and physical harm inflicted on the victims. “This charge involves significant allegations of violence,” she noted, referring to the attack’s brutality and Doukoshkan’s purported role in it.
The court was also informed that Doukoshkan had previously served six years in prison for drug offenses, which ultimately led to the revocation of his visa and his transfer to immigration detention. Given his past and the serious allegations now before the court, the judge ultimately denied his bail request, and Doukoshkan is set to appear in court again in May.
The unfolding case continues to highlight the complex issues surrounding immigration detention and public safety in Australia, particularly as authorities grapple with the balance between legal obligations and community protection.