UPDATE: The sentencing of disgraced ex-MP Gareth Ward for the sexual assault of two young men has been delayed due to a last-minute legal strategy. This critical development comes just as Ward was set to learn his fate at Parramatta District Court on Wednesday, July 18, 2023, but has now been postponed to Friday, July 21, 2023.
Ward’s attorney, Steven Burns, requested additional time to present arguments regarding sentencing guidelines, prompting a dispute over whether to apply current practices or those in effect during the crimes committed in 2013 and 2015. While both parties agreed to the delay, Judge Kara Shead expressed frustration at the late-stage request, noting the disappointment of Ward’s two victims who were observing proceedings remotely.
The former Kiama state MP, who has been in custody since July, appeared in court via video link, dressed in prison greens, but remained silent throughout the session. Ward’s offenses include the rape of an intoxicated political staffer and the indecent assault of an 18-year-old man, impacting both victims profoundly.
In a harrowing victim impact statement, one survivor detailed the lasting effects of the assault, stating, “I was raped by a politician – someone entrusted with protecting our most vulnerable.” His testimony highlighted the emotional turmoil he has faced, including losing hope for future relationships.
Ward’s other victim described living in fear and emotional numbness since the assault, stating, “The cost of this experience … has been a dulling of my ability to fully experience and enjoy the positive things in life.”
Despite the gravity of the charges, Ward has argued for a community-based sentence, citing his legal blindness and character references that claim his actions were out of character. Former Liberal MP Shelley Hancock provided support, asserting, “Gareth would not be a danger to anyone in the community at all.”
Ward’s political career has been tumultuous; he was removed from his ministerial role as Minister for Families, Communities, and Disability Services in 2021 amid ongoing police investigations. Remarkably, he was re-elected as an independent in the 2023 election despite these serious allegations. However, he resigned in August, narrowly avoiding expulsion from the NSW Parliament.
As the legal battle continues, the community is watching closely. This latest adjournment underscores the complexities of the legal system and the ongoing impact on the victims involved.
For those affected by sexual assault, support is available through resources like 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732 and Lifeline at 13 11 14.
Stay tuned for updates as this significant story develops.
