Veteran broadcaster Alan Jones has been charged with historical indecent assault and sexual touching offences that span over two decades. NSW Police confirmed that the 83-year-old was charged with 24 offences involving eight alleged victims. These charges include 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, nine counts of assault with an act of indecency, two counts of sexually touching another person without consent, and two counts of common assault.
The charges stem from a series of incidents that occurred between 2001 and 2019. The NSW Police Child Abuse Squad began investigating these matters earlier this year, leading to the formation of Strike Force Bonnefin in March. The alleged offences involve both personal and professional interactions, with the youngest alleged victim being 17 years old at the time of the incidents.
On Monday morning, NSW Police executed a warrant and arrested Mr. Jones at his luxury apartment in Circular Quay, Sydney, around 7:45 a.m. According to Detective Superintendent Linda Howlett, Mr. Jones appeared “calm” when taken into custody. Shortly after the arrest, he was transported to the Day Street Police Station, arriving at approximately 11:15 a.m. in the back of an unmarked police car.
During the raid on his residence, police seized several electronic devices, which may provide further evidence for the investigation. Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald stated that Mr. Jones knew the alleged victims both personally and professionally, a detail that could complicate the case.
The charges against Mr. Jones are serious, and if proven, could have significant legal consequences. However, in a brief statement, Jones’s lawyer, Chris Murphy, firmly denied any wrongdoing. When Mr. Jones was released on bail later in the day, he avoided reporters’ questions as he left the police station. Wearing a green tracksuit and using a walking stick, Jones was escorted to a waiting car by Murphy.
NSW Police have stated that Mr. Jones will appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on December 18, where his case will be heard in further detail. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not ruled out further charges as they continue to examine the evidence.
Support services for victims of sexual assault have been made available by NSW Health, the NSW Sexual Violence Helpline, and several other organizations dedicated to helping those affected by abuse.
Jones, who has been a prominent figure in Australian media for decades, is now facing a significant legal challenge that will likely have wide-ranging consequences for his career and public reputation. The case is being closely monitored by both the public and legal experts as it develops.