A man has been charged with trespass after allegedly entering the remote north-east Victorian property where Dezi Freeman was found hiding before his death during a police operation. The man, aged 43 and from Yea, allegedly entered the Thologolong property in April, several weeks after police located Freeman’s makeshift hideout and ended a long-running search.
Victoria Police allege the man entered the private property on Murray River Road, Thologolong, on April 16. After accessing the site, he filmed footage inside the shipping container where Freeman had been living and later shared the video online. Police say the investigation resulted in the man being charged with one count of trespass. He is expected to face the Wodonga Magistrates’ Court later in 2026.
The footage showed the interior of the converted shipping container, including personal items, clothing, bedding, batteries, a radio and other belongings. Authorities have not confirmed which items belonged to Freeman. The video also showed the isolated conditions of the location, which had been used as a hiding place during Freeman’s time on the run.
The property became the focus of national attention after Dezi Freeman was located there following a seven-month manhunt. Freeman had been wanted by police after two officers were killed during an incident at Porepunkah in Victoria’s north-east in August 2025. Police later found him at the Thologolong property, where a lengthy stand-off ended with Freeman being fatally shot by officers in March 2026.
Police investigations continued after Freeman’s death, including inquiries into how he survived while avoiding authorities for months. Authorities examined the circumstances surrounding his movements and whether other people assisted him during his time in hiding.
The decision by individuals to enter and film the hideout attracted criticism, with concerns raised about respecting the families of the police officers who lost their lives during the original incident. Victorian officials said the site was connected to a tragic event that deeply affected police members and the wider community.
The accused man has stated publicly that he entered the property to retrieve a drone. Police allege that the entry occurred without permission, which led to the trespass charge. The matter will now proceed through the court system, where the allegations will be considered.
The case highlights ongoing public interest surrounding the Dezi Freeman investigation, including questions about the remote hideout, the police operation and the legal issues involved after the site was accessed by members of the public. Authorities continue to remind people that private properties connected to major investigations remain protected areas and should not be entered without permission.
