The sentencing of state-independent MP Troy Bell, convicted of theft and dishonesty, could be delayed due to the potential need for a by-election. Last September, a jury found the 51-year-old guilty of 20 counts of theft and five aggravated counts of dishonest dealings, involving over $430,000 stolen from not-for-profits supporting vulnerable school children. Judge Rauf Soulio postponed the sentencing process until Bell’s appeal, scheduled for March 13, can be heard.
Bell’s legal counsel argued that if a prison sentence is imposed, it would trigger a by-election due to his absence from parliament, complicating the matter further. The judge acknowledged the costs and inconveniences associated with conducting a by-election, stating that he had not been made aware of such details yet. He mentioned that typically, sentencing should proceed to mitigate potential dual appeals against conviction and sentence but acknowledged that exceptional circumstances exist.
Judge Soulio plans to hear further submissions from the defence on March 20 before making a final decision on sentencing. Bell has represented the Mt Gambier seat since 2014, having left the Liberal Party following his charges. Outside the court, he refrained from commenting due to the ongoing appeal.