**Murder of Ebony Simpson**
**Definition:**
The murder of Ebony Simpson was a high-profile criminal case in Australia involving the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of a nine-year-old girl in 1992. The case drew significant media attention and led to changes in child safety awareness and law enforcement practices.
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## Murder of Ebony Simpson
The murder of Ebony Simpson is a tragic and widely publicized criminal case in Australia, involving the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of a young girl named Ebony Simpson. The incident occurred in 1992 in New South Wales and had a profound impact on the local community and the nation, highlighting issues related to child safety and criminal justice.
### Background
Ebony Simpson was a nine-year-old girl living in the town of Bargo, New South Wales. On the afternoon of April 9, 1992, Ebony was walking home from school when she was abducted. The case quickly became a major focus for law enforcement and the media due to the nature of the crime and the young age of the victim.
### The Crime
Ebony was taken by a man named Derek Percy, who was later identified as her murderer. She was sexually assaulted and strangled to death. Her body was discovered several days after her disappearance in a remote area near Bargo. The brutality of the crime shocked the community and led to widespread calls for justice and improved child protection measures.
### Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into Ebony Simpson’s disappearance was extensive, involving local police and specialized units. Witnesses reported seeing a suspicious man near the area where Ebony was last seen. Police focused on Derek Percy, who had a history of violent offenses and was known to law enforcement. He was arrested and charged with Ebony’s abduction and murder.
### Trial and Conviction
Derek Percy was tried and convicted for the murder of Ebony Simpson. The trial revealed disturbing details about Percy’s criminal history and the circumstances surrounding Ebony’s death. He was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The case underscored the importance of thorough background checks and monitoring of individuals with violent tendencies.
### Impact and Legacy
The murder of Ebony Simpson had a lasting impact on Australian society. It raised awareness about the dangers children face and the need for vigilance in protecting them. The case contributed to changes in law enforcement procedures, including improved coordination between agencies and the development of child safety programs.
Ebony’s family became advocates for child safety, working to educate the public and support victims of similar crimes. The case remains a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities of children and the ongoing need for effective measures to prevent such tragedies.
### Media Coverage
The case received extensive media coverage, which played a role in keeping public attention on the investigation and trial. However, it also sparked discussions about the ethical considerations of reporting on crimes involving children, balancing public interest with respect for the victim and her family.
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**Meta Description:**
The murder of Ebony Simpson was a tragic 1992 case in Australia involving the abduction and murder of a nine-year-old girl, leading to significant changes in child safety awareness and law enforcement practices.