Bruce Lehrmann to learn if alleged Toowoomba rape case will go to trial

A witness will be cross-examined at a committal hearing that will decide whether there is enough evidence for rape charges against former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann to go to trial.

A man wearing a suit, tie and glasses who is walking outside.

Former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann has denied allegations he raped a woman in Toowoomba in 2021. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

KEY POINTS
  • Former Liberal Party starffer Bruce Lehrmann will face a committal hearing in June.
  • He is accused of raping a woman twice in Toowoomba. Lehrmann denies the allegations.
  • The committal hearing will determine if there is enough evidence for a trial.
Former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann has a date for a committal hearing to decide whether or not he will face trial on rape charges.

Lehrmann, 28, is accused of raping a woman twice in Toowoomba, west of Brisbane, in October 2021 and has denied the allegations.

During a brief hearing at Toowoomba Magistrates Court on Monday, defence barrister Patrick Wilson said he no longer required a directions hearing to settle a contested issue with prosecutors.

"There has been an agreement between the parties on the scope of examination (of a witness)," Wilson said.

Prosecutor Nicole Friedewald said the matter would require a half-day hearing.

Magistrate Mark Howden set a date for 17 June for a committal hearing where a witness would be cross-examined.

Lehrmann, who was not required to attend court, had his bail continued until the next court mention.

He was first charged with rape in Toowoomba in January 2023.

The matter has been the subject of numerous hearings due to prosecutors challenging the scope of medical and phone data evidence requested by his defence.

If this story has raised any issues for you, help is available at Lifeline on 13 11 14.

If you or someone you know wants to talk about sexual assault or harassment, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au

In an emergency, call 000.

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2 min read
Published 26 February 2024 1:13pm
Source: AAP


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