Malua Bay man Richard Harrington defends multiple sexual touching charges

A man’s court matter on sexual touching charges has been temporarily delayed after a conflict of interest was identified in court. Find out why the matter might be adjourned until August.

Richard Harrington leaving Batemans Bay Local Court on Febuary 20. Picture: Tom McGann.

A south coast man who allegedly sexually touched several young women has had his matter temporarily halted after revelations the magistrate knows him and the alleged victims.

Richard Harrington, 54, of Malua Bay, left Batemans Bay court on Monday not knowing when his matter would return to court or who his magistrate would be.

Harrington is charged with seven counts of sexually touching another without consent, carrying out a sexual act without consent, and two counts of common assault.

He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Police alleged in documents tendered to Batemans Bay Local Court Harrington sexually touched multiple women between December 24, 2021, to January 20 this year.

Police will allege the offending took place in Moruya and Malua Bay.

Richard Harrington did not appear Batemans Bay Courthouse when his matter was mentioned on Monday. Picture: Tom McGann.

Magistrate Doug Dick said he could not personally proceed with Harrington’s matter due to knowing the defendant.

“I would have an issue hearing this matter because I know Mr Harrington and I know the complainants,” Mr Dick said.

Mr Dick said he was looking for a date where he would not be present.

Harrington’s lawyer, Brett Ford, said an adjournment to August may be necessary to meet those needs.

Unable to agree on a date, Mr Dick said he would call Mr Ford following court to secure a date.

“Best way to do it, is to just leave it,” he said.

“I’ll get the registry to call you.

“It’s a lot easier to do it over the phone.”

Mr Dick ruled for Harrington’s bail to continue, which was first granted after his arrest on February 7.

Following court, Mr Dick and Mr Ford agreed to have Harrington’s matter return to Batemans Bay Local Court on October 31 for a three-day trial.