There’s been a major development in the trial against former Liberal staffer, Bruce Lehrmann
The retrial against former Liberal staffer Bruce Lehrmann is not expected to go ahead.
It was scheduled for February 20, but now the charges against Lehhrmann will likely be dropped.
The ACT Director of Public Prosecutions is scheduled to deliver a short statement outside the court later this morning.
News.com.au is reporting the Director received medical evidence regarding the impact a second trial would have on the mental health of Brittany Higgins.
This includes psychiatric advice the retrial would pose an unacceptable risk to Higgins and her mental wellbeing.
The initial court hearing against Lehrmann was brought to a grinding halt back in October following juror misconduct.
Lehrmann has pleaded not guilty to a charge of sexual intercourse without consent.
Meanwhile, it has emerged 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.
But it’s likely these changes won’t be necessary. The Director of Public Prosecutions is expected to state the decision not to proceed with the trial has been taken because it is no longer in the public interest.
