VOLUNTARY euthanasia campaigner Philip Nitschke expects to be charged over a cancer sufferer’s suicide now being investigated by Major Crime detectives.
Investigators probing the death of Max Bromson in a Glenelg motel room have asked the deregistered medico known as “Dr Death” to attend police headquarters to be interviewed. He has agreed to be questioned and his lawyer is negotiating a time.
He has publicly admitted advising Mr Bromson.
The 67-year-old, in severe pain from terminal cancer, died in the company of his brother Garry, sister Kerry and children Matthew and Pip at 2am on Monday.
He had spent the past five years battling the disease after being given six months to live when diagnosed in 2009.
Mr Bromson, who ran for the Senate for the Voluntary Euthanasia Party at the last Federal Election, took his life by swallowing the barbiturate Nembutal imported from China.
His family said the death was peaceful and dignified, but their call to advise authorities resulted in a raid by 18 uniformed police and detectives who searched all the family’s motel rooms and cars, seized their mobile phones, laptops and iPads, fingerprinted the room and cautioned them they may face charges.
Dr Nitschke, who was suspended by the Medical Board last week for his euthanasia advocacy, said he would cooperate with police. Asked if he expected to be charged, he replied: “Yes.”
“Whether I am charged revolves around the vexed and murky issue of what constitutes assisting a suicide,” he said. “I passed on information which gave Max knowledge of how to import the drug and what to do with it, and when the drug arrived I was able to test it to make sure he had not received the wrong drug. It was very pure.
“I am very concerned political weight will come to bear with these inquiries. A raid by 18 police smells of political interference.”
Mr Bromson asked his family to film his final act to show he took the drug voluntarily and without assistance. Police have seized the video.
They released a statement saying: “Major Crime Investigation Branch is now conducting further investigation and a full assessment of the facts in order to determine whether any criminal offences have been committed.
“The response by police has been consistent with any investigation into a death that may have resulted from a criminal act.
“Usual protocols have been followed, with the scene properly examined and items seized that may provide evidence. Interviews were conducted and statements taken.
“Those present were cautioned as they may have been committing a criminal offence of assisting in a suicide. The investigation remains ongoing.”
Mr Bromson’s family flew in from interstate and overseas to be by his side.
His brother, Garry, said the family did not want him to die alone. An autopsy and inquest will be held.
People contemplating suicide should seek help by calling Lifeline on 131114 or Beyondblue on 1300 224636.