Minister calls domestic violence victim Nellie Tilley over lenient sentence

NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman has personally phoned a domestic violence victim to explain why his office cannot challenge a lenient sentence given to Sydney millionaire publican Phillip de Angelis, who pleaded guilty to repeatedly assaulting the woman.

Nellie Tilley at court in November 2018.

• Phillip de Angelis escapes jail and home detention for assaults
• Outrage at paltry penalty for wealthy DV brute

NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman has personally phoned a domestic violence victim to explain why his office cannot challenge a lenient sentence given to Sydney millionaire publican Phillip de Angelis who pleaded guilty to repeatedly assaulting the woman.

De Angelis, 39, appealed his original sentence of 18 months home detention in a $4m Bondi apartment last month, which was reduced to one day a week community service.

Janelle "Nellie" Tilley leaves at the Downing Centre Local Courts in November 2018. Picture: AAP

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Mr Speakman ordered a review of the case immediately in days of the decision to see if there were grounds to appeal.

De Angelis had pleaded guilty to of five counts of assaulting Nellie Tilley, his socialite girlfriend, in 2016 after a plea agreement saw a further 20 charges dropped, including claims he choked her.

NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman personally called Nellie Tilley to explain why his department couldn’t appeal the decision. Picture: APP/Ben Rushton

“I had a lengthy discussion with Ms Tilley about her experience with the criminal justice system,’’ Mr Speakman said on Wednesday.

“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has informed me there is no ability to appeal or review the sentencing decision of the District Court.

“I made Ms Tilley aware of this position during our conversation. I understand her concern and dissatisfaction.’’

Millionaire publican Phillip de Angelis outside court. Picture: John Grainger

He praised the courage of Ms Tilley, who was left with a scar from one of the attacks, for pursuing her case.

“I applaud Ms Tilley’s courage in holding her assailant to account for his appalling actions and her commitment to advocating for other victims of domestic and family violence.”

Ms Tilley, when approached for comment, said she appreciated the fact Mr Speakman had taken the time to call her and explain his office’s position but hoped victims of domestic abuse would still come forward.

Phillip de Angelis in Bondi on April 1, 2019.

“My goal in seeking justice was to hold him accountable and ensure no other woman goes through the same thing,” Ms Tilley said.

De Angelis, from Bondi, is a member of one of Sydney's most wealthiest hotelier families and is the nephew of pub zsar Arthur Laundy and cousin of former reality TV star Stuart Laundy.

He has two years in which to fulfil 750 hours of community services and must undergo regular drug and alcohol testing, which can be carried out by his family doctor.