Lehrmann rape trial abandoned, charges dropped due to Higgins health concerns - 9News

ACT's Director of Public Prosecutions has confirmed he will not pursue a retrial of accused rapist Bruce Lehrmann, citing the wellbeing and health of alleged victim Brittany Higgins.

Shane Drumgold confirmed he had filed a notice this morning bringing the prosecution to an end.

"I have recently received compelling evidence from two independent medical experts that the ongoing trauma associated with this prosecution presents a significant and unacceptable risk to the life of the complainant," he said.

Bruce Lehrmann pleaded not guilty to sexual intercourse without consent. (Alex Ellinghausen)

"In light of the compelling independent medical opinion and balancing all factors, I have made the difficult decision that it is no longer in the public interest to pursue a prosecution at the risk of the complainant's life.

"This has left me no option but to file a notice declining to proceed with the retrial of this matter which I have done this morning. This brings the prosecution to an end."

Higgins accused Lehrmann of sexually assaulting her in the office of then-Defence Minister Linda Reynolds in Parliament in March 2019.

He has denied the accusation and denied having sex with Higgins.

He pleaded not guilty in his initial trial.

Brittany Higgins speaks after Bruce Lehrmann's initial trial was aborted over juror misconduct. (Rhett Wyman/Sydney Morning Herald)

Drumgold praised Higgins' courage during the course of the prosecution.

"During the investigation and trial as a sexual assault complainant, Ms Higgins has faced a level of personal attack that I have not seen in over 20 years of doing this work," he said.

"She has done so with bravery, grace and dignity and it is my hope that this will now stop and Ms Higgins will be allowed to heal."

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The jury in Lehrmann's initial trial was discharged over juror misconduct after several days of being unable to reach a verdict.

The retrial date had been set for February 20 next year.

Emma Webster, a close friend of Higgins, said she was "in hospital getting the treatment and support she needs".

"The last couple of years have been difficult and unrelenting," the friend said.

"While it's disappointing the trial has ended this way, Brittany's health and safety must always come first.

"Brittany is extremely grateful for all the support she has received, particularly from our mental health care workers."

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

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https://news.google.com/__i/rss/rd/articles/CBMiigFodHRwczovL3d3dy45bmV3cy5jb20uYXUvbmF0aW9uYWwvYnJ1Y2UtbGVocm1hbm4tc2Vjb25kLXNleHVhbC1hc3NhdWx0LXRyaWFsLWV4cGVjdGVkLXRvLWJlLWFiYW5kb25lZC9lYzFkOGViOS1iYTM5LTQyYmItOGRmNi1kM2ZjMGQ2NjhmMjLSAQA?oc=5

2022-12-02 11:06:08Z
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