Gareth Ward claims “weaponised complaints process” in historic sexual violence case

Embattled Kiama MP Gareth Ward has hit out at what he calls an “attempted political assassination”, as his historic sexual violence court case briefly resumed.

Embattled Kiama MP Gareth Ward has made a rare public statement since he was charged with historic sexual violence, telling the South Coast News the charges are an attempt at “political assassination” ahead of the 2023 NSW state election.

The 41-year-old former Liberal member was accused by police earlier this year of three counts of assault with acts of indecency and one count each of sexual intercourse without consent and common assault.

Mr Ward said on Friday “genuine” victims should be supported, but hit out at what he called a “weaponised” criminal process.

“It is wrong to weaponise a complaints process in an attempted political assassination,” he said.

Gareth Ward MP speaking with residents in Kangaroo Valley who have been affected by floods. Picture: Tim Hunter.

Police allege that Ward indecently assaulted a 17-year-old boy at Meroo Meadow in February 2013, and sexually abused a 27-year-old man in Sydney in September 2015,” the statement read.

He will remain on bail after his solicitor, South Coast-based lawyer Robert Foster, appeared at the Nowra Local Court on June 24 where Magistrate Lisa Vina adjourned the case until August 19.

A case conference will also take place on August 8.

Gareth Ward’s solicitor, South Coast-based lawyer Robert Foster, outside the Nowra Local Court on June 24 as the Kiama MP faces charges of historic sexual assault. Picture: Nathan Schmidt

Mr Foster refused to answer questions from the press after leaving the South Coast, telling reporters he had “no comment”.

No pleas have been entered.

Mr Ward has not stated whether he intends to contest the NSW State Election due next year.