New footage obtained by ABC News Verify shows the violent arrest of 76-year-old filmmaker James Ricketson during an anti-Herzog protest in Sydney. Ricketson, who was involved in the protest against controversial policies, was physically subdued by several police officers after what began as a seemingly minor encounter, where an officer touched him on the shoulder. The video, which has raised eyebrows, particularly focuses on the excessive force used against Ricketson, prompting discussions about the appropriateness of police tactics in such civil demonstrations.

The incident unfolded on a Monday evening when protestors gathered to express their dissent against issues related to the Herzog administration. Witnesses claim the initial interaction quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, capturing the attention of onlookers and leading some to question the police's approach to managing protests. Ricketson has publicly stated that he sustained injuries during the arrest and that he was later released without any charges being filed against him. This brings forward questions about the balance between maintaining public order and respecting individual rights during protests.

Additionally, the legal implications surrounding the incident are significant; the declaration of a 'major event' by the Premier complicates potential claims by protesters like Ricketson. NSW government MP Stephen Lawrence has expressed his intent to advocate for a review regarding this legal framework, emphasizing the need for a careful reevaluation of how such declarations impact people's rights to protest and seek legal redress. The event underscores growing concerns over police authority and civil liberties in Australia, particularly in relation to the treatment of peaceful demonstrators.