Jury to decide persistent child sexual abuse case in Launceston court
A jury in Launceston is deliberating on charges that a 62-year-old man persistently sexually assaulted his stepdaughter between 2003 and 2011.
A Supreme Court jury in Launceston is weighing charges of persistent child sexual abuse spanning eight years. The man pleaded not guilty to assaults allegedly occurring between 2003 and 2011.
The prosecutor presented evidence of three times the assault allegedly happened: in a car, during a drive home from a barbecue, and in her bedroom. The alleged victim was the only witness.
Sherriff argued her testimony was credible and detailed, with other witnesses backing up parts of her account. The defence said the woman's evidence had inconsistencies and contradictions in timing.
It argued that if abuse happened in the house, family members would have heard it, since the walls were thin. The judge said it would likely be all or nothing: guilty on all three charges or not guilty.
If the jury rejects the three main charges, they can find him guilty of aggravated assault, indecent assault, or rape.
- 2003 to 2011
- Time span
- 62 years old
- Defendant's age
- Three specific assaults
- Occasions presented
- Launceston Supreme Court
- Trial location
Why it mattersThe jury's decision will determine whether the man faces serious criminal conviction for prolonged child abuse.
AustraliaThe case adds to an ongoing Tasmanian court docket addressing serious crimes against children.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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