Officer sues Victoria Police over bridge death PTSD

One of the first police officers on scene after four-year-old Darcey Freeman was fatally thrown off the West Gate Bridge is suing Victoria Police and VicRoads.

Darcey's father, Arthur Freeman, threw her off the bridge on January 29, 2009 and was in 2011 sentenced to life in prison with a minimum period of 32 years.

Colleen Spiteri is now suing Victoria Police and VicRoads, seeking damages for pain and suffering, documents filed in the Supreme Court show.

Her statement of claim, made available to media on Tuesday, says she suffered post traumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder as a result of the incident.

Ms Spiteri, 44, alleges Victoria Police failed to provide proper counselling after the incident and did not properly debrief her.

It's also alleged the force did not adequately monitor her health and performance.

Ms Spiteri claims VicRoads failed to have adequate guards on the bridge and did not minimise the risk that it could be used for harm.

She was a constable at the time of Darcey's death and is still employed by Victoria Police.

Ms Spiteri is not making a claim for economic loss, but is seeking damages for pain and suffering.

Victoria Police won't provide further comment as the matter is before the court, a spokeswoman said.