UPDATE: Mark Latham is embroiled in a court battle over allegations of “slut-shaming” his ex-partner, Nathalie May Matthews, as she seeks to halt his crude online posts about her. The urgent legal proceedings unfolded on Wednesday, with Matthews applying for an aggravated violence order (AVO) in July and now pursuing an interim apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) against Latham.
Matthews’ lawyer emphasized to the court that Latham’s online actions are causing her “massive distress,” stating, “(I) seek an order that the defendant stops posting on social media about her … (or otherwise) seeking to slut shame her.” Magistrate Susan Horan responded firmly, instructing Matthews’ lawyer to “watch your language in my court,” as the term used prompted a warning.
The hearing was complicated by Latham’s absence due to parliamentary duties, with his solicitor indicating she had no instructions to consent to decisions regarding the interim order. Despite this, Matthews’ legal representative argued there is a “solid foundation” for the interim order, prompting Horan to schedule a future hearing since Latham’s lawyers could not provide immediate consent.
In a dramatic twist, Latham described his relationship with Matthews as merely a “situationship,” a claim that Matthews’ lawyer countered, asserting it was indeed a relationship based on Latham’s own evidence. The court proceeding was temporarily adjourned until 12 PM to determine a hearing date for the interim ADVO.
Additionally, Matthews’ legal team sought a non-publication order to protect her identity, which is expected to be addressed in court in October. Horan questioned the efficacy of this request, asking, “has the horse not bolted already in this matter?”
The allegations against Latham are severe; Matthews claims he subjected her to abuse and coerced her into degrading sexual acts. However, specific details have not been disclosed publicly, and no criminal charges have been filed by NSW Police. Latham has vehemently denied all allegations and previously indicated he intends to contest them.
This controversy has escalated as Latham’s online posts have increasingly focused on Matthews’ claims and the media coverage surrounding them. Additional accusations have emerged, suggesting he sent sexually explicit messages from the parliament chambers and engaged in inappropriate behavior, including secretly photographing female colleagues.
Latham, who serves as an independent Member of the Legislative Council, has denied breaching any parliamentary rules and has not faced formal accusations of misconduct. He recently issued apologies to two fellow parliamentarians but claimed ignorance regarding any videos of sexual acts allegedly conducted in his office.
As the legal battle continues, the implications of these allegations could have significant repercussions for Latham’s political career and personal life. The situation is developing rapidly, with many eyes on the upcoming hearings that will shape the narrative further.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
