UPDATE: South Australian independent MP Nick McBride remains in custody after a court has denied his bail application following serious assault charges. The 56-year-old politician was arrested on Saturday in Conmurra, located on the Limestone Coast, and faces multiple allegations of aggravated assault against a woman known to him.
In a tense court appearance via videolink from Mt Gambier, McBride’s request for bail on “special reasons” was rejected by Magistrate Melanie Burton. The ruling underscores recent amendments to the Bail Act, which classify McBride as a “prescribed applicant,” creating a presumption against bail due to the nature of the allegations.
McBride’s lawyer, Jane Abbey KC, argued for his release, stating, “We say there are special reasons (for bail). It should be made clear that the charges will be vigorously defended.” However, after a brief adjournment, Abbey acknowledged the legal hurdles, seeking a home detention eligibility report instead. The court will hear this report on January 6, 2024.
The former Liberal MP is charged with six counts of aggravated assault, alongside charges for breach of bail and an intervention order violation, stemming from incidents dating back to April 10, 2023. He will return to court on January 30, 2024, to address these charges.
Local political leaders reacted sharply to the news. Premier Peter Malinauskas described the situation as “stunning,” expressing his uncertainty about the implications. Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn labeled the allegations as “incredibly concerning,” highlighting the serious nature of the accusations.
McBride, who has represented the safe Liberal seat of MacKillop since 2018, left the party in 2023 and currently sits on the cross bench. He has indicated intentions to run for re-election in the upcoming state election in March 2024. With a family legacy in the region, McBride’s case is drawing significant public attention, raising questions about the impact of these serious allegations on his political future.
As developments continue, the public is keenly watching the proceedings, with many awaiting further updates on the eligibility for home detention and the upcoming court dates.
