Officer Asked About Murder Day Before Killings, Court Hears

Police officer Beau Lamarre-Condon asked a colleague about a high-profile murder case, inquiring if the perpetrator would have "gotten away with it" if he had not died by suicide, a Sydney court heard. This conversation occurred one day before Lamarre-Condon allegedly murdered Jesse Baird and Luke Davies. Lamarre-Condon, aged 31, is accused of fatally shooting the couple using his police-issued firearm at Baird's residence in Paddington on February 19, 2024. The court heard that Lamarre-Condon made this inquiry to an investigator on February 18, 2024, referencing the murder of Lilie James. The investigator reportedly responded that the killer would not have escaped justice. Lamarre-Condon has pleaded not guilty to two charges of murder. The prosecution alleges that Lamarre-Condon used his service pistol to shoot Baird and Davies, then dismembered their bodies and disposed of them in a rural area. The court was informed that Lamarre-Condon had been in a relationship with Jesse Baird. The alleged murders followed a dispute between Lamarre-Condon and Baird. The court heard that Lamarre-Condon had been suspended from duty prior to the alleged offenses. The investigator, whose name was not disclosed in the court proceedings, testified that Lamarre-Condon appeared to be seeking reassurance or information about the Lilie James case. The investigator stated that Lamarre-Condon's demeanor was unusual, and he seemed preoccupied with the details of the previous investigation. The prosecution presented evidence suggesting that Lamarre-Condon had researched methods of body disposal online. The court also heard testimony from friends of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, who described the couple as happy and in love. They expressed shock and disbelief at the allegations. The defense has argued that the prosecution's case relies heavily on circumstantial evidence and that Lamarre-Condon acted in a state of panic. The trial is ongoing, with further evidence expected to be presented regarding the timeline of events and the forensic findings. The Lilie James murder case, which Lamarre-Condon referenced, involved a separate perpetrator who died by suicide after committing the crime. The investigator confirmed that the case was considered solved due to the perpetrator's death. The court is expected to examine the mental state of Lamarre-Condon at the time of the alleged murders. The prosecution aims to demonstrate premeditation and intent, while the defense may explore defenses related to provocation or diminished responsibility. The proceedings are being closely watched due to the high-profile nature of the case and the involvement of a serving police officer. The court has been presented with CCTV footage showing Lamarre-Condon purchasing items consistent with body disposal. The defense has questioned the chain of custody for some of the evidence. The judge has instructed the jury to consider all evidence presented impartially. The trial is anticipated to last several more weeks.