Veteran Australian broadcaster Alan Jones has declared his innocence after facing 34 charges of historical abuse, including eight new allegations presented in court on Wednesday.
Appearing at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court, Jones, 83, sat in the front row as his solicitor, Bryan Wrench, entered not-guilty pleas on his behalf.
Outside the courthouse Jones addressed a media scrum, stating, “I am certainly not guilty… these allegations are either baseless or distort the truth,” adding that he looks forward to presenting his account to a jury.
The charges involve 10 complainants and span incidents alleged to have occurred between 2001 and 2019, including claims from a former employee under his authority.
Jones’ appearance sparked heated reactions from the public, with hecklers arriving early and shouting accusations as he entered and exited the court under tight security.
Police allege the offenses took place across multiple locations, including Jones’ former Newtown residence, his Circular Quay apartment, and a Southern Highlands property.
The case will return to court on March 13, when evidence will be served to both parties. Jones’ legal team emphasised his determination to clear his name, stating he “welcomes the matters being determined by a jury.”
Meanwhile, Jones remains free on conditional bail.
Uh oh…..doesn’t look to happy, does he?
In these type of cases, publication of name only upon a conviction.