Stay
Police and prosecutors had a relationship “beset by stress” from the outset of an investigation into former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins’ rape allegations, an unbiased inquiry has been advised.
The inquiry was established by the ACT authorities to look at how police, prosecutors and a sufferer assist service dealt with the allegations made by Ms Higgins towards her former colleague Bruce Lehrmann.
Mr Lehrmann confronted an ACT Supreme Courtroom trial in October, nevertheless it was derailed as a result of juror misconduct.
The costs towards him had been later dropped due to issues concerning the affect a second trial would have on Ms Higgins’ psychological well being.
Mr Lehrmann denies the allegation he raped Ms Higgins in Parliament Home in 2019.
Counsel helping the inquiry Erin Longbottom outlined the proof anticipated to be heard throughout public hearings, which start subsequent week.
Ms Longbottom stated proof can be introduced concerning the engagement between ACT Police and the director of public prosecutions (DPP) which was “beset by stress from the outset”.
Factors of battle between the 2 workplaces arose from whether or not it was applicable for the police to interview Ms Higgins for a second time and “confusion” about whether or not Mr Lehrmann needs to be charged.
Ms Longbottom stated the workplaces disagreed on how issues affecting Ms Higgins’ credibility needs to be handled by the DPP and the police.
“The obvious shut engagement between investigating officers and the legal professionals for Mr Lehrmann in the course of the trial led to some mistrust between the police and the DPP,” Ms Longbottom stated.
“Data and statements from witnesses have additionally raised points concerning the DPP’s conduct of the case, each earlier than in addition to in the course of the trial.”
The board of inquiry has collected greater than 140,000 related paperwork because it was established in December.
ACT DPP Shane Drumgold, Mr Lehrmann’s protection lawyer Steven Whybrow, Victims of Crime Commissioner Heidi Yates and cops shall be known as to offer proof over the course of the inquiry.
Ten journalist Lisa Wilkinson can also be anticipated to be known as to offer proof.
Ms Longbottom emphasised the inquiry was not concerning the allegations made by Ms Higgins however fairly about how every of the prison justice companies performed themselves in the course of the investigation and prosecution of these allegations.
“Public confidence within the prison justice system is important to the upkeep of democracy,” she stated.
“A collaborative working relationship between these charged with the obligation to research crime and people charged with the obligation to prosecute crime is important to any well-functioning prison justice system.”
– AAP
