Former Victorian Magistrate Simon Cooper's conviction for indecently assaulting boys is a warning for all, says ex-detective Charlie Bezzina Ex-magistrate Simon Mitchell Cooper on his way into the County Court. Former homicide squad detective Charlie Bezzina says Cooper's conviction reaffirms his belief there is no "typical" criminal. Picture: HWT library Source: News Limited COMMENT: CHARLIE Bezzina is among those who worked with Simon Cooper, and says the ex-magistrate's conviction is a reminder that smart, cunning criminals can fool us all. AS a homicide investigator it was common practice to have a prosecutor from the Office of Public Prosecutions assigned to conduct the prosecution case on behalf of police. Once appointed, interaction with the prosecutor is quite regular both before a committal or trial and throughout the court proceedings. Social interaction was also common with the prosecutor, particularly in trials held in rural areas of Victoria. One such prosecutor that appeared on my behalf was Mr Simon Cooper. Some months ago, when I became aware Simon had been charged with sexual offences involving young males, I was astonished to say the very least. I certainly did not want to accept the allegations, especially as I believed I knew the man, and because of his position as a magistrate. It wasn't until he pleaded guilty, when it reinforced in my mind something I already knew from the criminal investigations that I have been involved in. That is, never be surprised when someone you think you know is charged with a criminal offence. There is no typical-looking sex offender, murderer, or any other type of criminal. Criminal offenders from all walks of life aspects of life are among us, and some - such as Cooper - are much smarter than others. We should all be aware of actions by individuals and the language that may be used that may raise our suspicions. But for me, and in Simon Cooper's case, there appeared to be no indicators, even in hindsight. Of course, it may well be that we let our "suspicion" guard down when we are around those we are comfortable with and trust.