COVID-19 vaccination fraud-accused miner David Murray Allen’s court case adjourned for second time

BHP has confirmed a miner who allegedly attempted to bribe a nurse in exchange for a fraudulent vaccine record no longer works for the company. Port Hedland resident David Murray Allen faced South Hedland Magistrates Court for the second time on Monday after being charged in November 2021 with one count of attempting to induce a person to do an unlawful act by fraud, as well as numerous drug-related offences. When Mr Allen first fronted court in November 2021, a BHP spokesperson said Mr Allen’s employment status would be reviewed while the court process was under way. BHP has since confirmed Mr Allen is no longer employed by the company. The 31-year-old allegedly attended an appointment at Hedland Health Campus on November 10 to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. After being escorted to a booth to be vaccinated, it was alleged Mr Allen handed the vaccination nurse a note offering money in exchange for a fraudulent vaccine record. When the nurse refused, the man left and was later charged by South Hedland detectives. The court heard on Monday that Mr Allen would not be entering a plea at present. Mr Allen’s lawyer, Tania Wenn, told the court Mr Allen was undertaking drug diversion activities as well as seeing a psychologist and requested an adjournment and bail extension. Ms Wenn also said to Magistrate Gavin Maclean Mr Allen planned to enter separate pleas for his charges at the future date. Mr Maclean granted the adjournment and extended Mr Allen’s bail. Mr Allen is due to appear for a third time in court on March 14.