July 15, 2024
David William Wonnocott, 50, who faces charges for making death threats against Brittany Higgins, her partner David Sharaz, and their dog, has undergone successful treatment for his mental health conditions. However, concerns remain about his ongoing psychiatric evaluation, according to recent court proceedings.
Wonnocott, residing in Tweed Heads, is accused of using a carriage service to menace and making threats to kill, targeting Higgins and Sharaz due to their association with allegations made by Higgins against former Liberal party staffer Bruce Lehrmann.
During a court hearing on Monday, Judge John Pickering noted that Wonnocott had also expressed disapproval towards the LGBTQ+ community, adding complexity to the case.
David Sharaz, in a victim impact statement expected to be presented, described feeling fearful for their safety after receiving the threats.
In February, Wonnocott pleaded guilty to the charges and appeared for sentencing at Lismore District Court. The case, however, was adjourned until November upon the request of his barrister, Susan Kluss, who argued for further psychiatric assessment to inform the court’s decision.
Kluss informed the court that Wonnocott had shown stability after treatment with antidepressants and consultations with his psychiatrist. Despite this, Judge Pickering emphasized that Wonnocott’s entrenched views and their implications on his behavior would need thorough examination.
The judge highlighted that any psychiatric report must provide substantive evidence regarding Wonnocott’s mental state, considering the seriousness of the charges and their impact on the victims.
While the crown prosecutor did not oppose the adjournment, questions were raised about the utility of further psychiatric evaluation in influencing sentencing decisions.
Judge Pickering granted the adjournment, affirming that it would ensure a fair trial and allow Wonnocott to present a comprehensive defense. He acknowledged that the prosecution was seeking a custodial sentence, underscoring the gravity of the case.
Brittany Higgins, who faced severe backlash after publicly alleging sexual assault in Parliament House, has since relocated with Sharaz to France. They recently announced expecting a baby, marking a new chapter amidst ongoing legal proceedings.
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