Australian DJs Whose Prank Call Led to Nurse’s Death Broke the Law, Says Court

The High Court of Australia has ruled that two Sydney radio presenters broke the law when they phoned a London hospital posing as the Queen and Prince Charles in a prank that eventually led a nurse to take her own life.

In 2012, DJs Michael Christian and Mel Greig from 2Day FM phoned the hospital that was treating the Duchess of Cambridge for morning sickness to try to obtain details of her condition, reports ABC.

Nurse Jacintha Saldhana answered the call and following a media storm later killed herself.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) had originally ruled the station had breached New South Wales surveillance and broadcast law as they did not seek permission from hospital staff before the call.

But 2Day FM successfully appealed, saying the media watchdog had no power to determine whether they had committed a criminal offense.

On Wednesday, the High Court overturned the appeal, ruling the ACMA did in fact have the power to judge criminal actions of broadcasters.

The radio station faces serious penalties and could potentially have its broadcast license suspended.

[ABC]