Bruce Lehrmann Seeks Judge-Only Trial for Queensland Rape Allegations

The former Liberal staffer faces two rape charges stemming from alleged incidents in 2021, with legal teams preparing pre-trial applications.

Bruce Lehrmann, a former federal Liberal staffer, is accused of raping a woman twice in October 2021 after a night out in Toowoomba, Queensland.
Lehrmann's legal team has announced plans to apply for a judge-only trial, citing concerns over pre-trial publicity potentially impacting jury impartiality.
The prosecution and defense are preparing pre-trial applications, including those related to evidence of uncharged acts and access to privileged records.
The complainant testified that initial sexual activity was consensual but alleged subsequent acts occurred without her consent while she was intoxicated.
A pre-trial directions hearing is scheduled for March 27, with both sides required to file their applications by March 14.