David William Wonnocott, a 51-year-old man from northern NSW, has been sentenced to a minimum of 16 months in prison for threatening Brittany Higgins, her partner, David Sharaz, and their pet dog. This verdict was issued by Judge John Pickering at Sydney’s Downing Centre District Court after it emerged that Wonnocott had a history of sending vitriolic, homophobic, and misogynistic messages online.
Wonnocott’s threats escalated in 2022 when he contacted Sharaz via Instagram, expressing violent intentions towards the couple, which ultimately forced them to leave Australia out of fear for their safety. The judge remarked that the extensive abuse Higgins suffered publicly after alleging rape in 2019 contributed to the legitimacy of their fear.
Wonnocott’s actions were described by the judge as indicative of someone with “awful views,” and his prior convictions for making offensive remarks and inciting violence highlighted a pattern of intimidation. Higgins underscored the profound effect such harassment has had on their lives, pushing them to a state of constant fear and distress.
The court recognised the need to address such threats seriously. The case exemplifies the significant real-world impact of online abuse, particularly on victims who have bravely come forward to share their stories.