Accused Harasser Rants Politically Outside Court

Ronald Dean Munro, 73, appeared in Adelaide Magistrates Court on Wednesday facing six counts of using a carriage service in a harassing or offensive way. Prosecutors allege Munro, from Elizabeth South, sent federal MP Matt Burnell at least 10 emails between May 2023 and December 2025, with the content considered menacing, harassing, or offensive.

Outside the courthouse, Munro addressed reporters, stating, "Don't f***ing vote Labor. Look at the way the country is. That's enough, leave me alone. End of subject." When questioned about the alleged attack on independent MP Helen Haines, who lost her legs after being struck by a car, Munro responded, "I talked to my Labor member about that last year. It might happen. Bondi happened. This has happened."

The court heard that Munro's case is set for trial after prosecutors could not maintain a previous plea deal. "We have previously had some negotiations in relation to his offer but prosecution is presently reconsidering the plea offer put to consolidate the charges," the prosecutor stated.

Australian Federal Police reportedly traced the source of the emails to Munro's property on January 9. A spokesperson for Burnell's office commented at the time, "Australians 'need to be able to disagree respectfully again' and that 'we should be better than this as Australians.' Everyone needs to do their part to turn the temperature down and have their say without crossing the line."

Munro's case was adjourned until next month.