GARETH WARD - EX-MP AND CONVICTED RAPIST FACES SENTENCING
Lawyers for convicted rapist Gareth Ward have argued in court that he should receive a lighter sentence because of his “enormous fall from grace” including the loss of his political career.Ward, 44, was found guilty in July of sexually abusing two young men in 2013 and 2015, with charges including three counts of indecent assault and one of sexual intercourse without consent.
He resigned as an independent MP for Kiama last month, just hours before he was to be expelled from parliament.
Ward appeared before the Parramatta district court via video link from Cessnock prison where he has been remanded in custody awaiting sentencing scheduled for late October.
His lawyers argued that he should receive a lesser sentence noting that his career and standing in the community have been shattered, and that he is unlikely to reoffend.
They pointed out that Ward's albinism, which has left him legally blind, makes him extremely vulnerable and at risk in custody.
The Crown prosecutor countered that Ward’s actions had triggered the consequences he faces today, and that he was aware his political career was in jeopardy when he committed the offenses.
The court heard from one of the men who was assaulted; he was just 18 when Ward indecently assaulted him three times in one night in 2013, despite his resistance, leading to severe mental health issues and substance abuse.
The victim expressed his distress over the process, stating it caused strain on his relationships and fear that Ward might harm him outside the court.
Ward's sentencing is set for 29 October.
