Former New South Wales MP Gareth Ward has been handed a three-year prison sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting two men, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the once-prominent politician.
Political Career Ends in Conviction
The ex-Member for Kiama stood silently in Sydney's Downing Centre District Court as Judge James Bennett delivered the sentence, which includes a non-parole period of 18 months. The conviction relates to separate incidents involving two men that occurred while Ward held parliamentary office.
Judge Bennett emphasised the serious breach of trust involved, stating that Ward had exploited his position of power and authority. "These were serious offences committed by a person who held a position of public trust," the judge remarked during sentencing.
Details of the Offences
The court heard how Ward sexually assaulted one man at his constituency office in Nowra in 2015, while the second incident occurred at his Sydney home in 2019. Both victims had trusted the MP in his professional capacity before the assaults took place.
Ward maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings, but the judge found the evidence against him compelling and credible. The former politician now faces the prospect of spending at least 18 months behind bars before becoming eligible for parole.
Fall from Political Heights
Gareth Ward's political career spanned over a decade, during which he served as the Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services. His conviction represents one of the most significant political downfalls in recent NSW parliamentary history.
The case has sent shockwaves through political circles and raised important questions about accountability and conduct standards for elected officials. Ward's sentencing serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their political standing or previous contributions to public life.
With his conviction now complete, attention turns to the ongoing impact on his victims and the broader implications for political accountability in Australia.
