UPDATE: A suspended arrest warrant has been issued for Bruce Lehrmann after he and his lawyer failed to appear in Hobart Magistrates Court this morning. Lehrmann faces serious legal consequences unless he provides a medical certificate and attends a rescheduled hearing on December 4, 2024.
The court’s frustration was palpable as Magistrate Robert Webster expressed his disappointment with the no-show during a preliminary hearing concerning a car theft charge. Lehrmann is accused of stealing a Toyota Prado from a remote location in Mountain River, Tasmania, on November 20, 2024.
Police prosecutor Bunewat Keo confirmed a strong case against Lehrmann, stating that several witnesses, including the car owner and five police officers, are prepared to testify. The hearing, which could last up to four days, is critical for the prosecution’s case.
During the court session, lawyer Zali Burrows sought an adjournment, claiming Lehrmann was unavailable due to “urgent medical issues.” However, Magistrate Webster was unimpressed, indicating that Burrows did not grasp the court’s process. After a brief recess, Webster reiterated the importance of the contest mention, stressing that those involved should clearly communicate their positions.
In a twist, Burrows revealed she struggled to access crucial prosecution details, citing password protection issues. Webster remarked, “People who come to contest mention can lay your cards on the table and speak frankly about the prospects of success,” emphasizing the need for transparency in legal proceedings.
The magistrate ultimately issued the suspended warrant, stating it would not be acted upon if Lehrmann presents a valid medical excuse and attends the hearing. “If he does not appear on December 4, he will be arrested,” Webster declared, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
Lehrmann, previously embroiled in high-profile legal battles, including a 2019 alleged rape case involving colleague Brittany Higgins, remains in the public eye. A trial related to that case was abandoned in 2022 due to juror misconduct, while a 2024 Federal Court ruling found that the rape did occur, dismissing Lehrmann’s defamation suit against Network Ten and presenter Lisa Wilkinson. Lehrmann has since appealed that decision.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the developments leading up to the December hearing, where the future of Bruce Lehrmann hangs in the balance. The legal community and the public are eagerly awaiting the next steps in this high-stakes case, which continues to evoke strong emotions and public interest.
