Labor MP Anna Watson’s stepson pleads not guilty to domestic violence charges

The stepson of one of NSW Labor’s loudest voices on domestic violence has denied assaulting his girlfriend. See what happened in court

Matthew James Vann, stepson of Shellharbour Labor MP Anna Watson, charged with common assault and two counts of stalk or intimidation, was in Manly Local Court on Tuesday. File picture: Facebook

The stepson of one of the state’s staunchest domestic violence advocates has appeared in court to face charges he assaulted his girlfriend.

Matthew James Vann, 32, of Albion Park, the stepson of Labor Shellharbour MP Anna Watson, was in Manly Local Court on Tuesday charged with common assault (domestic violence) and two counts of stalk or intimidation intend fear of physical or mental harm.

Mr Vann, who lives in the Illawarra region, pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Matthew James Vann (right), 32, of Albion Park, outside Manly Local Court where he pleaded not guilty to assaulting his girlfriend and two counts of stalking or intimidating her. Picture: Manly Daily

In documents tendered to court police alleged that Mr Vann assaulted his then partner at Willoughby on January 21 this year.

Police will allege the assault occurred some time between 6pm and 8.30pm.

It will also be alleged that Mr Vann stalked or intimidated the woman, twice, on the same and at the same location.

Police noted in a bail document, tendered to court, that Mr Vann is diagnosed with autism.

It is understood that he had been in a relationship with the alleged victim for five months before the alleged offences occurred.

An apprehended domestic violence order is also in place between Mr Vann and the alleged victim.

Last month Ms Watson told NewsLocal that she was limited in what she could comment on, however, she said her “heart goes out” to the alleged victim.

“I can’t comment on what’s before the court,” the Labor MP said.

“I don’t want to be in contempt of court, there is a process.

Matthew James Vann (left), 32, of Albion Park, outside Manly Local Court on Tuesday where he pleaded not guilty to assaulting his girlfriend. Picture: Manly Daily

“I attended interviews with him to ensure proper processes were taken given he has an intellectual disability. He had a choice of who he wanted as a support person so I sat in and listened.

“I will always support victims of family and domestic violence. I have spoken to hundreds of women and my heart goes out to this (alleged) victim.

“I will support her in anyway I can.”

Ms Watson was a prominent voice in NSW parliament regarding domestic violence issues and despite believing it didn‘t go far enough to protect victims, she was a supporter of the government’s Coercive Control Bill which passed parliament last year.

Magistrate Robyn Denes listed the matter for hearing at Manly Local Court on July 31.

Mr Vann’s bail was continued.