Former broadcaster Alan Jones faces accusations of inappropriate contact with 11 individuals, with the youngest victim alleged to be 17 years old at the time of the offense.
The 84-year-old intends to plead not guilty to 35 historical charges alleged to have occurred over nearly two decades during his prominent media career.
His lawyer, Bryan Wrench, stated today that the case against the radio personality comprises evidence that is “we believe, in stark contradiction to some of the claims made.”
“Some of the witnesses said they’ve never seen Mr Jones engage in any sexually inappropriate behaviour at all,” he told Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court.
The raft of allegations include that Jones fondled the penis of one of the alleged victims and kissed them on the lips, and that he touched another on the bottom.
Wrench suggested it was a matter for prosecutors to decide whether the matter should proceed.
The crown prosecutor asked for an eight-week adjournment to have the charges certified in preparation for pleas to be formally entered.
Jones was excused from appearing in court today and will not be required to attend when the matter returns to court on July 8.
The veteran broadcaster vowed to fight the charges after his first court appearance in December.
“These allegations are all either baseless or they distort the truth,” he told media.
“I have never indecently assaulted these people.”
He is also facing two charges of common assault.
Jones took a failed tilt at politics before beginning a hugely influential career on the airwaves in 1985, becoming a feared interviewer who excelled at interviewing leaders while dividing audiences with his outspoken conservative views.
He worked with Sydney radio station 2UE before joining rival 2GB, where he was a long-time ratings juggernaut until his retirement in 2020.
The former high school teacher also coached the Australian national men’s rugby union team through some historical achievements between 1984 and 1988.
