UPDATE: The jury is expected to deliver its verdict tomorrow in the high-profile trial of Kiama MP Gareth Ward, who stands accused of multiple counts of sexual abuse. The trial, currently underway at the NSW District Court, has drawn significant public attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and Ward’s long-standing position as a state MP.
Ward, aged 44, has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual intercourse without consent and indecent assault. He is accused of inviting an intoxicated 18-year-old man to his South Coast residence in February 2013 and allegedly assaulting him multiple times despite the victim’s attempts to resist.
Further complicating the case, Ward is also charged with sexually assaulting a 24-year-old political staffer in 2015, following a parliamentary event. The victim testified that Ward groped him while he was in bed, despite repeatedly saying “no.”
During closing arguments, Ward’s barrister, David Campbell SC, urged the jury to find Ward not guilty, labeling the accuser’s account as “inherently unreliable.” Campbell questioned the complainant’s ability to accurately recall the timeline of events, noting that he was “fairly certain” the assault occurred in September 2015, despite earlier stating it might have been between June and August 2015.
“There is this pervading, inherent unreliability in the recall of (the complainant) as to when this occurred,” Campbell stated during his remarks.
Moreover, cell tower records indicated that the complainant was near Parliament House during the alleged incidents, casting doubt on the location of the assaults. Campbell also criticized the police investigation, claiming that the officer in charge selectively chose what to investigate, leading to potential bias.
As the jury prepares for deliberation, the emotional weight of the case is clear. The complainant’s actions, including discussing the allegations with friends and contacting authorities, have been scrutinized, with Campbell suggesting they may have pressured him into maintaining an inaccurate narrative. “Could it be the case that (he) has been put into a position where, having brought forward to his friend a story that was not correct, he was caught and had to go on with it?” he questioned.
The atmosphere surrounding the trial is charged, reflecting the broader societal issues concerning sexual abuse allegations and the judicial process. As the jury considers its verdict, the implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, touching on themes of accountability and the responsibility of public figures. The court is set to reconvene, with a verdict expected as early as Tuesday.
For those affected by sexual abuse, support is available through the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028 or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
