Arabic version: بدء محاكمة آلان جونز في محكمة بسيدني

According to ABC News, veteran broadcaster Alan Jones has appeared for the first day of his trial on allegations of indecent assault and sexual touching involving six male complainants. The 85-year-old has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies wrongdoing.

Following pre-trial hearings in which some charges were dropped or reduced, Jones faces 22 charges: 20 counts of assault with an act of indecency and two counts of sexual touching. The alleged incidents occurred between 2003 and 2020 at his Circular Quay apartment, a public event and his former Fitzroy Falls property.

Prosecutor Georgina Wright SC opened the case with allegations concerning Complainant J, who told the court he met Jones as a high school student. He alleged Jones kissed him on occasions and touched his genitals during a drive to Fitzroy Falls. His evidence is due to continue on Tuesday.

The prosecution also outlined allegations involving Complainants C and A, including an alleged kiss of a year 12 student at Fitzroy Falls. Prosecutors will argue Jones either knew there was no consent or was reckless as to consent.

Defence barrister Gabrielle Bashir SC said the case involved “rivalry, treachery, double dealing, money, hatred, desperation, opportunism and more”, and said Jones had faced a “trial by media”. The judge-only trial, before Judge Glenn Walsh at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court, is expected to run for several weeks and hear from more than 70 witnesses.