Russell James Smerdon trial results in hung jury
A trial involving an ex-teacher from one of the state’s top schools charged with allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage boy has had a shock twist.
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A trial involving an ex-teacher from one of the state’s top schools charged with allegedly sexually assaulting a teenage boy decades ago has resulted in a hung jury.
Russell James Smerdon, a former boarding master at Brisbane Grammar School (BGS), has pleaded not guilty to one count of indecent treatment of boys under 17 and one count of sexual assault, in relation to two alleged assaults of the boy in 1983.
The complainant alleges that Smerdon sexually abused him while they were alone, after he confided in him about his parents divorce.
Smerdon represented himself in the trial which began Tuesday in Brisbane’s District Court.
The jury began deliberations about 2.30pm on Wednesday.
On Thursday afternoon the jury was discharged after being unable to reach a verdict.
The case will be mentioned at a future date with Smerdon remaining on bail.
Originally published as Russell James Smerdon trial results in hung jury
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