22 August, 2025
former-director-fined-4-000-for-sexual-assault-at-afl-match

UPDATE: A former investment firm director has been sentenced to pay $4,000 after pleading guilty to sexually touching a woman without consent during an AFL match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The incident occurred on August 9, 2022, and has sparked outrage as Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge condemned the behavior as “disgusting” and “childish.”

Scott Peter Townsley, 47, attended the Sydney Swans versus Collingwood Magpies game in an exclusive members pavilion when he flicked the woman on the behind as she walked past. The victim, who was a stranger to Townsley, immediately confronted him before reporting the incident to security, who subsequently contacted the police.

CCTV footage captured the moment, leading to Townsley’s arrest the following day at his Bondi Beach home. Upon his arrest, Townsley refused to participate in a police interview and was charged at the Surry Hills Police Station.

During the sentencing hearing held on Friday, Magistrate Milledge expressed her disapproval, stating, “There’s got to be a message sent that this type of flippant behaviour is not to be tolerated.” Townsley, dressed in a sleek navy suit, bowed his head as the details of his actions were laid bare in court.

In a bid for leniency, Townsley’s barrister, Maxine Malaney, argued that he had no prior criminal history and emphasized his good character and psychological challenges. However, Magistrate Milledge rejected these claims, saying, “He was out drinking with his friends… it’s all his own making.” She highlighted the anguish the victim experienced waiting for over eight months for Townsley to admit his guilt.

The magistrate’s remarks underscored a growing intolerance for such behavior in sports venues and public spaces, calling for an end to “childish stupid and belittling behaviour.”

This case serves as a significant reminder of the cultural shift around consent and accountability, particularly in environments where alcohol is involved. The ruling reflects the urgent need for respect and integrity, especially in social settings.

As the conversation continues, authorities and organizations are urged to bolster their measures against sexual misconduct, ensuring that incidents like this do not go unchecked.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.