In a landmark ruling, a 77-year-old man, Stanley Bruce Early, was sentenced to 22 years in prison for the murder of Raymond Keam, a 43-year-old martial arts expert, in Alison Park, Randwick. Keam’s brutal killing took place near a men’s restroom in the park, which was known as a gay cruising spot, though Keam was not openly gay. This unsolved murder had left many unanswered questions, causing pain to Keam’s loved ones.
Justice Dina Yehia of New South Wales recently delivered the verdict, stating that there was a “real chance” Early would die in prison, considering his age. At the time of the murder, Early, then 40, was living near the park and had been sexually assaulted as a child. He now identifies as bisexual. He had been out on bail for allegedly committing an indecent act against a 12-year-old boy.
During the trial, Justice Yehia emphasized that Early’s violent conduct, motivated by hatred and prejudice against homosexual men, resulted in the death of Raymond Keam. Although there was no direct evidence linking Early to the fatal blow, medical examination showed that Keam had died due to one or more fatal blows to the head, leading to the conclusion that Early’s involvement had led to his death.
A victim impact statement read during the trial described Early as a “soulless monster” who not only murdered Keam but also destroyed the lives of other gay men. The statement highlighted the lasting impact of the crime on Keam’s family, friends, and the LGBTQ+ community.
This long-awaited conviction sends a powerful message that there is no place for hatred and prejudice in society. The resolution of this cold case represents a significant step towards justice and closure for the LGBTQ+ community in Australia.
