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A previous families minister, described as “humiliated” following the revelation of his sexual offenses against two individuals, has contended that his early release from prison could allow him to contribute positively to society.
His lawyer, David Campbell SC, has stated that the former coalition MP, who has been imprisoned since July, possesses promising rehabilitation prospects and presents a low risk of reoffending.
He was found to have sexually assaulted an intoxicated political staffer after a mid-week event at NSW parliament house in 2015.
According to testimony given by the victim, who was 24 years old at the time, the then-coalition MP allegedly entered the bed, inappropriately touched him, and sexually assaulted him despite his repeated refusals.
His other victim, then aged 18, was plied with drinks before Ward indecently assaulted him three times in one night in 2013.
Ward pleaded not guilty at trial, claiming the incidents either didn’t happen or didn’t amount to sexual abuse
A NSW Liberal party cabinet member, Ward transitioned to the crossbench in 2021 when it became public that he was under investigation by the police for alleged sexual offenses.
Such was his personal support in the Kiama region that he managed to win re-election as an independent in the 2023 election, even while being suspended from parliament.
Ward will be sentenced on October 29.
Support is available by calling 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service on 1800 211 028.
