Ian Wally, a 49-year-old man from Broome, has been sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to attempting to set a police officer on fire during an incident outside Royal Perth Hospital in January 2025. The Perth District Court heard that Wally had been under the influence of methamphetamine and alcohol when he approached the hospital with a jerry can full of petrol. He was seen trying to make a homemade wick at the hospital entrance before leaving the scene.

Wally's actions escalated when he attempted to douse an empty taxi with petrol after confronting hospital security. The court highlighted the severity of Wally's actions which posed a significant threat to the life and safety of the police officer involved. The incident has raised concerns about public safety and the potential risks faced by law enforcement officers during confrontations, particularly when substance abuse is involved.

The sentencing of Wally serves as a reminder of the serious legal consequences for such dangerous actions. He will be eligible for parole in 2027, which could provide an opportunity for rehabilitation, considering the circumstances surrounding the incident, including his substance abuse at the time. This case draws attention to the broader issues of mental health and addiction, particularly in contexts involving violent behavior toward first responders.