Man granted bail again after sexual assault charges within days
Joshua Liam Markey was given bail Monday after new sexual assault charges. This came just four days after his earlier release.
Joshua Liam Markey was charged with making someone engage in a sexual act without consent and common assault. The charges came after an incident in October 2025.
Markey went to court and was given bail again. Police argued he posed a serious risk of more crimes.
The judge found the case troubling for this reason. The alleged adult victim had first tried to report the incident.
Police said they could take no action and found no crime. The victim came forward again after learning Markey faced court over a separate case.
That case involved a 10-year-old boy at a Cessnock public toilet in late October 2026. His bail requires a curfew.
He must report to police. He must follow good behaviour rules.
He cannot contact the alleged victim. The case returns to Maitland Local Court on 25 November.
- Joshua Liam Markey, 39
- Suspect age
- Four days from release to new charges
- Time between charges
- October 2025
- First incident date
- Cessnock Plaza shopping centre
- Bathroom incident location
Why it mattersThe case raises questions about how police handle victims who report sexual assault. It raises questions about whether early action could stop more crimes from happening.
AustraliaNSW courts and police face scrutiny over handling of sexual assault complaints and victim protection protocols.
