Sydney
Bruce Lehrmann’s trial: jury sent back for further deliberations
This article contains allegations of sexual assault and may be distressing to some readers.
The jury in Bruce Lehrman’s trial for the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins in the Capitol was unable to agree on a verdict on Tuesday.
Four male and eight female jurors have sent a note to the ACT Supreme Court.
Lehrmann pleaded not guilty to having sex without consent with Brittany Higgins in 2019 in the office of then Defense Industry Minister Linda Reynolds.
ACT Director Lucy McCallum sent the jury back to the jury room to review the evidence.
“I have the power to release you without a verdict, but only if I am satisfied, there is no possibility of an agreement.
“Your guilty or innocent verdict must be unanimous.”
“I ask you to retire again to see if you can pass judgment in this trial.”
Former Liberal Party official Brittany Higgins. sauce: AAP / lucas cook
Less than ten minutes later, the jury returned, calling for dismissal for the day and a new return for Wednesday’s deliberations.
The judge agreed and sent the twelve home.
“Go to the gym, walk the dog, whatever you need to do… get some rest from this arduous work,” Judge McCallum said.
A jury heard testimony from 29 witnesses during the 12-day trial.
If you’re having trouble with this story, help is available on the Lifeline (13 11 14).
If you or someone you know wants to discuss sexual assault, harassment, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or In case of emergency, please call 000.
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/no-decision-jury-sent-back-for-further-deliberations-in-the-trial-of-bruce-lehrmann/gpwo1yfu2 Bruce Lehrmann’s trial: jury sent back for further deliberations
