Harley Hicks Case – BENDIGO, Victoria Murder Conviction and Sentencing
BENDIGO, Victoria — Background — Harley Hicks, whose name became synonymous with one of Victoria’s most disturbing crimes, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2014 after being convicted of the 2012 murder of 10‑month‑old Zayden Veal‑Whitting.
The Crime
In the early hours of 2012, Hicks broke into the Veal‑Whitting family’s home in Long Gully, near Bendigo. While inside, he fatally assaulted baby Zayden as the infant lay in his cot. Prosecutors revealed that the child suffered repeated blows from a homemade baton during the attack — a crime that shocked Australia for its brutality and the vulnerability of the victim.
Trial and Sentencing
- In April 2014, a jury found Hicks guilty of murder.
- On June 13, 2014, the Supreme Court of Victoria in Bendigo sentenced him to life imprisonment with a non‑parole period of 32 years.
- Justice Stephen Kaye described the killing as “appallingly violent” and “utterly evil,” emphasizing that the infant had been attacked in what should have been the safety of his own home.
- The judge noted that mercy could play no role in sentencing, given the gravity of the offense, and stressed the importance of protecting society’s youngest and most vulnerable members.
Community Impact
The murder devastated Zayden’s family and deeply affected the Bendigo community. The case attracted widespread public attention throughout the investigation, trial, and sentencing because of the horrific nature of the offense.
Legacy
With the life sentence imposed, the criminal proceedings were brought to a close, though the immeasurable loss suffered by Zayden’s family remains. The case continues to be remembered as one of Victoria’s most tragic and disturbing crimes involving a young child.
Heartfelt condolences remain with the Veal‑Whitting family, whose grief and loss continue to resonate across the Bendigo community. 🕊️
