Former New South Wales government minister Gareth Ward is currently on trial for a series of sexual assault charges. Even after four weeks of trial, it may not be too late for the public. The trial has received a lot of publicity. This comes particularly in light of a former political staffer’s testimony about the witness tampering conversation with one of Ward’s complainants. The staffer’s account highlights the profound impact that Ward’s perceived power had on the complainant, who felt unable to report the alleged assault.
In early 2017, this very same complainant opened up to the staffer about his anger, his fear of and his frustration with Gareth Ward. The complainant listed his fear that going public about the incident would cost him his job with Ward having such power. In hindsight, one could argue that during his testimony, the staffer should have recognized that the complainant was visibly – and understandably – shaken. He didn’t think the complainant was acting hysterically.
Contradictions in Testimony
The staffer’s testimony has called into question. There are material differences between his testimony in court and his 2021 police report statement. In that initial statement, he hadn’t provided any specifics about the reported assault. In cross-examination, Ward’s barrister David Campbell SC pressed the staffer extensively. The staffer confessed to me that this was only because they’d heard about the allegation directly from the complainant.
“Can I suggest that the version in the statement is a more accurate version,” – Mr Campbell SC.
“You can suggest it — but I wouldn’t agree with it,” – the staffer.
This kind of conflicting narrative has led to concern over the accuracy and trustworthiness of the evidence presented in court. The sockpuppeteering staffer maintained that he had, indeed, been made aware of the allegations. This realization certainly complicates the story being told about this case, though that doesn’t change his conflicting memories.
Emotional Impact on Complainants
Much has been made of the emotional result of the alleged events on the complainants, which has been a focus in the trial. Like our first complainant, a close friend of the second complainant said that his emotional state was easily perceived.
“His general demeanour was not at all happy and he had visible tears that were welling in his eyes,” – the friend.
This testimony paints a picture of an individual grappling with significant emotional distress, which feeds into broader discussions about power dynamics within political settings. The friend’s observations underscore the serious nature of the complainants’ experiences and their fears related to reporting misconduct.
Ongoing Proceedings
The trial is likely to keep going to hear more evidentiary testimony from more witnesses connected to both accusers. As the proceedings have begun, observers have remarked on the delicate balance often required in pursuing allegations against those who hold the highest or most influential offices. These movements are a manifestation of deep-seated social frustration with issues of accountability and transparency in government institutions.
Gareth Ward’s legal team is still in the midst of contacting potential witnesses. They are compiling proof to claim their way out of these grave accusations. As this trial unfolds, the outcomes will undoubtedly have far-reaching effects on Ward’s future. It would dramatically change the politics of New South Wales.
