The Melbourne rape trial involving a well-connected man has taken a dramatic turn, with a court hearing that the alleged victim wanted to take him for 'all that he's worth.' The man, who cannot be named, faces two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, and has pleaded not guilty in Victoria's county court.
Key Allegations in the Melbourne Rape Trial
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences occurred in March 2023 after the woman—a former personal assistant for the accused—spent an evening drinking and taking cocaine with him while watching football at his friend's home. It is alleged that at the end of the night, the woman was at the man's house when he tried to kiss her and sexually assaulted her, then allegedly raped her twice.
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Witness Testimony and Courtroom Drama
On Friday, the trial heard evidence from another former personal assistant of the man, who told the court she had a falling out with the alleged victim after refusing to take her to drinks with the man in November 2021. The row in a Melbourne hotel culminated in the alleged victim throwing her cutlery and screaming, 'how dare you do this to me' and 'just one drink, just one drink with [him], why won’t you give me just one drink.'
Under questioning from the man's barrister, Dermot Dann KC, the witness agreed she formed the opinion that the woman was 'trying to force her way' into the accused's world, life, or business. The witness also denied claims that Dann said the alleged victim had made in her evidence, which was given in closed court.
Comparison of Key Testimonies
| Witness | Claim | Court Response |
|---|---|---|
| Former PA (witness) | Alleged victim threw cutlery and screamed during a hotel row | Confirmed under questioning |
| Defense barrister | Alleged victim wanted to take man for 'all he's worth' | Disputed by witness |
| Prosecution | Man raped and sexually assaulted former PA | Man pleaded not guilty |
Key Takeaways from the Melbourne Rape Trial
- The alleged victim is represented by the same legal team as Grace Tame, a prominent advocate.
- The man faces two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, all denied.
- A witness described the alleged victim as 'trying to force her way' into the accused's life.
- The trial continues in Victoria's county court with further evidence expected.
FAQ
What are the charges in the Melbourne rape trial?
The man faces two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Who is representing the alleged victim in this trial?
The alleged victim is represented by the same legal team as Grace Tame, a well-known advocate for survivors of sexual assault.
What did the witness testify about the alleged victim's behavior?
The witness testified that the alleged victim threw cutlery and screamed during a hotel row, and that she was 'trying to force her way' into the accused's world.
This Melbourne rape trial continues to capture public attention, with the court hearing conflicting accounts of the alleged victim's motives. As the case unfolds, further details are expected to emerge from Victoria's county court.