Former political staffer Bruce Lehrmann has faced a committal hearing Toowoomba Magistrates Court in Queensland, over alleged rape charges. The matter was adjourned to July 4.

Council of the City of Sydney

Bruce Lehrmann, accompanied by his lawyer, appeared in a Toowoomba court for a committal hearing. He faces accusations of raping a woman twice in October 2021. Lehrmann wasn't charged until December 2022, with the matter first mentioned in court a month later. Initially, Queensland law prohibited naming Lehrmann, only referring to him as a high-profile mystery man. However, legislation changes in October last year eventually lifted his anonymity, despite efforts from his legal team.

Magistrate Mark Howden closed the court and dismissed a media application while the 29-year-old alleged victim gave evidence. Special measures were implemented to protect the woman, allowing her to speak via video link from a separate room, without Lehrmann in her sight. This appearance marks Lehrmann's return to the public eye following a failed defamation case against Lisa Wilkinson and Network 10, which he is currently appealing.

During the hearing, Lehrmann's defence barrister, Andrew Hoare, submitted a no case argument, contending insufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial. The matter has been adjourned, with the next hearing scheduled for July 4th, though Lehrmann is not required to appear in person.



Bruce Lehrmann faces court for alleged rape charges

Back where he grew up to a homecoming crowd and armed with a punchline to clear the pack. Bruce Lerman appeared in Toowoomba court for the first time, flanked by his lawyer for a committal hearing accused of raping a woman twice. The offences allegedly happened in Toowoomba in October 2021. Mr Lerman wasn't charged until December 2022 with the matter then mentioned in court a month later. At the time of the charges we were prohibited from naming Mr Lerman under Queensland law or only ever referring to him as a high-profile mystery man. In October last year the legislation changed and despite Mr Lerman's lawyer's best efforts his veil of secrecy was eventually lifted. Today Magistrate Mark Howden closed the court dismissing a media application while the 29 year old's alleged victim gave evidence. Special witness measures were put in place to protect the woman allowing her to speak from a separate room via video link and with Bruce Lerman out of her eyeline. We haven't seen him since his failed defamation action against Lisa Wilkinson and Network 10 earlier this year which he's appealing. This afternoon Mr Lerman's defence barrister Andrew Hoare made a no case submission arguing there isn't enough evidence for the matter to go to trial. It's been adjourned until July 4th. Bruce Lerman doesn't have to appear in person. Staying out of the spotlight for now. Georgina Hill for 10 News First.

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