Key facts
- Broadcaster Alan Jones is facing trial for 22 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching.
- Jones has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
- His defense plans to challenge the credibility and reliability of the complainants.
- Prosecutors allege a pattern of fear and shame prevented victims from speaking out.
- Several complainants, some teenagers at the time, detailed alleged assaults involving financial support or gifts from Jones.
Broadcaster Alan Jones is on trial, facing 22 allegations of indecent assault and sexual touching. Jones has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense, led by barrister Gabrielle Bashir SC, intends to challenge the credibility and reliability of the complainants, suggesting motives such as 'rivalry, treachery, double-dealing, money, hatred, desperation, opportunism'. The defense aims to expose alleged 'concoction, contamination and reconstruction' of evidence.
Prosecutor Georgina Wright argued that a common thread among the complainants was fear, debt, or shame, which prevented them from speaking out sooner. The court heard details of alleged incidents involving several complainants. Complainant A, who was 17 at the time and received financial support from Jones, alleged sexual assault at Jones's property. Complainant J testified that Jones allegedly grabbed and squeezed his penis and kissed him without consent, describing their relationship as 'fearful' despite Jones's generosity. Complainant C, who worked for Jones at a radio station, alleged repeated groping and inappropriate comments, including text messages from Jones commenting on his penis size and declarations of love. Complainant F alleged Jones squeezed his buttocks at a public event when he was 17, but did not report it to the police, believing his word would not be believed over Jones's.
Jones, who previously held significant public influence, sat behind his lawyers during the proceedings, occasionally conversing and taking notes. He was asked to move seats to avoid being seen by the first witness, Complainant J. The trial continues.