A major hunt is continuing in the Australian state of Victoria for Dezi Bird Freeman, accused of shooting dead two police officers and injuring a third on his property. Freeman, 56, describes himself as a 'sovereign citizen,' rejecting governmental authority and law. His controversial history with law enforcement paints a picture of an individual whose anger towards authority escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the week leading up to the tragic shooting, concerns were raised by his wife regarding his erratic behavior. Witnesses recall him transforming from a familiar, community member into a person deeply entrenched in conspiracy theories and anti-government rhetoric.

As police search for Freeman, they face challenges given his experience in the wilderness. Eyewitness reports suggest Freeman may be armed with stolen weapons from the police officers involved.

The case encapsulates the rising tensions surrounding the 'sovereign citizen' movement in Australia, which has seen significant growth since the pandemic. The anti-establishment ideologies within this movement pose potential threats of violence, complicating law enforcement efforts and raising questions about public safety in regions with heightened anti-government sentiments.