Magistrate Richard Pithouse to be investigated after rape comment
The conduct of embattled Melbourne magistrate Richard Pithouse — who suggested a rape complainant had suffered “buyer’s remorse” — will be scrutinised in an investigation by the Judicial Commission of Victoria.
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The conduct of embattled Melbourne magistrate Richard Pithouse will be scrutinised in an investigation by the Judicial Commission of Victoria.
The investigation was launched in response to a referral by Attorney-General Jill Hennessy, who also scolded Mr Pithouse over his suggestion a rape complainant had suffered “buyer’s remorse”.
The investigation was launched in response to a referral by Attorney-General Jill Hennessy.
The magistrate’s conduct will now be “carefully considered” by the Commission.
PITHOUSE REFERRED FOR INVESTIGATION
MAGISTRATE SLAMMED FOR HEARTLESS RAPE COMMENTS
A month ago, the Herald Sun revealed the magistrate made questionable comments during a preliminary hearing into potential victim compensation for the woman, including telling her: “You can’t profit from your own malfeasance.”
Last week Attorney-General Jill Hennessy said: “It’s clear these comments are not in line with community expectations and caused distress to sexual assault survivors.
“That’s why I am referring this matter to the Judicial Commission for further investigation.”
Victoria’s Police Minister Lisa Neville said the controversial magistrate needed to be “held to account” over the comments.
“For the first time we’re starting to see in our sexual assault figures people coming forward to report much earlier,” Ms Neville said.
“It feels like sometimes that it’s undermining that message.”
A time frame has not been set for the investigation.
The Commission considers complaints regarding excessive delays judgments, inappropriate courtroom conduct and health issues affecting a judicial officer’s ability to perform their duties.
— with Tamsin Rose