Additional charges made against Alan Jones
NSW Police and notable media figures have spoken publicly following the arrest of Australian broadcaster, Alan Jones.
The former 2GB host was arrested at his home in Circular Quay on Monday morning, and later, NSW Police charged him with a total of 24 offences over historic sexual assault allegations.
On Tuesday, NSW Police confirmed that an “additional two counts of assault with act of indecency relating to a ninth victim” were made.
Speaking at a press conference, assistant police commissioner, Michael Fitzgerald, said it is alleged that the assaults involved eight victims and took place between 2001 and 2019.
“I wish to commend the victims and their bravery in coming forward,” he said.
“They fully are aware, as are the investigators, that the hard work is just beginning, and they have given their statements fully aware that they will go before the courts.”
Jones’ high profile media lawyer, Chris Murphy, later slammed Fitzgerald’s comments for “praising witnesses who he might like to call victims”.
“This is a matter for a courtroom, and I believe he is in terrible breach doing that,” Murphy said.
According to the AFR, Jones was planning to head to the US in a matter of days before he was arrested. The reason for the overseas trip is not yet known.
Since his arrest, fellow notable broadcasters have weighed in on the matter, including his former 2GB stablemate, Ray Hadley.
Hadley – who will retire from radio next month – addressed Jones’ arrest during his Monday broadcast.
“Obviously, I worked alongside Alan Jones for three decades… my relationship with Alan soured five years ago and I can’t discuss why it soured now, even though it was reported earlier, given that there are allegations, serious allegations against him,” Hadley said.
“My main concern at the moment is for the alleged victims who are obviously seeking justice in relation to these matters.”
Meanwhile, Peta Credlin, Jones’ former Sky News colleague, also discussed the situation during her Monday evening show.
“These allegations will now be tested in court where evidence will be put forward and that evidence judged. All of it, in a very public way,” Credlin said.
“As it should be because we believe in the rule of law in this country and we expect it to be applied openly, transparently and fairly.
“I’ve known Alan well for nearly two decades, and seen him in many different contexts, and the behaviour alleged is entirely out of character with the man I’ve known.”
Jones has been granted conditional bail and will appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday 18 December 2024.
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Neil Griffiths is the Managing Editor of Mumbrella. He joined the company in October 2023.
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Well, well how the mighty have fallen – still innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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