The woman accused of assaulting Victorian senator Lidia Thorpe after an AFL game in May has faced court, with her lawyer expressing concerns about “recent threats” against his client. Ebony Bell, 27 at the time of the alleged incident, appeared via video link in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Monday to face charges stemming from the confrontation outside the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Alleged Assault Reported After Dreamtime Match
The alleged assault took place on May 25, following the annual Dreamtime at the ‘G clash between Essendon and Richmond. According to police, a woman was assaulted outside the iconic sports venue, with the incident reported to authorities the following day. Bell was subsequently arrested on July 25 in connection with the case.
Charges and Injuries
Bell has been charged with two counts of recklessly causing injury and three counts of unlawful assault. While police initially described Senator Thorpe’s injuries as “minor,” the independent lawmaker has since stated that she suffered “serious nerve and spinal injuries” to her neck as a result of the confrontation.
Case Deficiencies and Prosecution Offer
During the court appearance, Bell’s lawyer, Emanuele Nicolosi, argued that the case against his client had some “real deficiencies.” However, he also revealed that the prosecution had made an offer on Friday, which he had not yet had sufficient time to consider fully.
Concerns Over Recent Threats
Nicolosi noted that Bell, a Koori woman, was appearing via video link due to “recent threats” against her. The nature and source of these threats were not disclosed during the court proceedings.
Senator Thorpe’s Absences and Controversial Moments
The alleged assault case has brought additional scrutiny to Senator Thorpe, who has faced criticism for missing 51 out of 138 Senate sitting days during the current parliamentary term. The senator defended her absences, stating:
“When I haven’t been present in parliament, I have still been engaged with and following the legislative agenda, and ensuring that my voting positions are reflected in the vote outcome through pairing arrangements.”
– Senator Lidia Thorpe
Thorpe also made headlines for calling out King Charles during a reception at Parliament House in Canberra and confirming that she swore an oath of allegiance to the late Queen’s “hairs” rather than her heirs when taking her Senate seat in 2022.
Next Court Date and Ongoing Investigation
Bell will remain on bail as the case progresses, with the next court appearance scheduled for November 22. As the investigation continues and more details emerge, the public will be closely following this high-profile case involving a sitting senator and the alleged assault that took place in the shadow of one of Australia’s most iconic sporting events.
