Overview

• The Downing Centre District Court trial opened May 27 and is set to run three to four weeks before a 15-person jury.
• On May 28, the 24-year-old complainant described verbally refusing Ward’s attempts before alleged groping and digital penetration.
• Prosecutors say Ward invited the staffer to his Potts Point apartment after a Parliament House event when the man felt unwell.
• Ward, Kiama MP since 2011 and now an independent, has pleaded not guilty to sexual intercourse without consent and indecent assault charges.
• The complainant said he felt “dirty” and “confused” afterward and questioned why Ward persisted despite his protests.