Bruce Lehrmann retrial scrapped amid concerns for Brittany Higgins’ mental health
The retrial against former Liberal staffer Bruce Lehrmann has been scrapped.
It was scheduled for February 20, but now the charges against Lehhrmann have now been dropped.
The ACT Director of Public Prosecutions delivered a short statement outside the court.
The Director said he received compelling medical evidence regarding the impact a second trial would have on the mental health of Brittany Higgins.
Lehrmann has maintained his innocence to allegations he raped Higgins, who was a colleague and fellow political staffer.
The prosecutors alleged the incident occurred in the office of the then defence industry minister, Linda Reynolds.
The initial court hearing against Lehrmann was brought to a grinding halt back in October following juror misconduct.
It follows reports the ACT government was rushing to amend its Evidence Act.
The changes would allow evidence previously given by Higgins to be used again. It would also free her from attending court or facing another cross-examination.
