Jed Joseph Mackenzie fires lawyer during court sentencing

Sentencing for Jed Joseph Mackenzie, 35, was halted in Armidale Local Court after the defendant fired his lawyer and attempted to change his previous guilty pleas. Mackenzie had previously pleaded guilty to 11 charges, including police pursuit, driving while disqualified, possessing unlawful number plates, entering enclosed agricultural lands, and possessing items believed to be stolen.

The proceedings were disrupted when Mackenzie's lawyer indicated the discovery of “possible exculpatory evidence.” Mackenzie subsequently requested a different lawyer from Legal Aid, claiming he had proof that the allegedly stolen items were legitimate. He also expressed frustration with his current solicitor, requesting to proceed with sentencing to avoid further impact on his health.

Judge Kirralee Perry advised that any attempt to change his pleas would require a formal application to “traverse his pleas.” Following a period of confusion and verbal outbursts from Mackenzie, the court granted the solicitor's request to withdraw, and Mackenzie indicated his intention to represent himself.