New details regarding allegations of indecent assault and sexual touching against veteran broadcaster Alan Jones have been made public as the four-month trial is set to begin on August 3. Jones, 85, has pleaded not guilty to 22 charges, maintaining the claims are "either baseless or they distort the truth."
A non-publication order that had restricted the reporting of specific allegations was lifted by Judge Glenn Walsh at a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday. Jones's legal team had argued that media coverage might prejudice the judge-only trial, but the judge dismissed the application, stating, "there is no jury panel to be prejudiced." He also noted that no evidence had been presented to suggest that reporting to date had not been fair and accurate.
The alleged offenses are said to have occurred between 2003 and 2020 at Jones's properties in Sydney and the NSW Southern Highlands, a Sydney restaurant, and various city events. Prosecutors revealed new details about claims made by six alleged victims.
Allegations by Complainant C
Prosecutors allege Jones faces eight charges relating to one man, identified as Complainant C. These include allegations of kissing and touching on multiple occasions. One incident reportedly took place in the lift of Jones's CBD apartment. On another occasion while driving, prosecutors claim Jones placed his hand on the man's crotch. Complainant C is also expected to allege that Jones touched his upper thigh and crotch area during a lunch. The court heard that the complainant stated "no, no" and turned his head to avoid a kiss during one alleged incident, and on other occasions claimed to have a throat or mouth illness to avoid being kissed.
Allegations by Complainant J
Jones faces nine charges concerning another alleged victim, Complainant J. Prosecutors stated that Jones allegedly gave this complainant a mobile phone and invited him to his apartment. During one alleged incident, prosecutors claim Jones gave Complainant J a "squeeze" and "peck" on the mouth, saying, "I love you mate." On a separate occasion while driving to Jones's NSW Southern Highlands farm, the broadcaster allegedly touched Complainant J's penis under his clothes. Prosecutors further allege that indecent acts occurred at the farm, including Jones masturbating while touching the man.
Other Allegations
A third man, Complainant I, alleges he was kissed on the corner of his mouth by Jones at an event. He reportedly received a text message from Jones with sentiments like, "I want to be kissing you all night long." This complainant also alleges that Jones pushed his genitalia into his body during a kiss at his home on an unspecified date between 2018 and 2020.
A fourth man, Complainant A, alleges he was touched on the backside and kissed by Jones at the broadcaster's Southern Highlands property. A fifth man claims Jones sexually touched him on the backside and back without consent at a function.
Judge Walsh emphasized that Jones "has the presumption of innocence" and that "it is the prosecution that bears the onus of proof throughout, beyond reasonable doubt, for each element of each offence as charged."
Jones, who retired in 2020 after a broadcasting career that began in 1985, developed a reputation for outspoken views and tough interviews during his time at radio stations 2UE and 2GB. He also coached the Australian Wallabies rugby union team and made an unsuccessful bid for political office. Jones has consistently maintained his innocence.