A former Member of the New South Wales Parliament, Roderick “Rory” Amon, has been committed to stand trial on multiple sexual assault charges, leading to hostile reactions from the public as he left the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney. Accused of sexually assaulting a teenage boy on the northern beaches of Sydney in 2017, the 35-year-old, who previously represented the Pittwater seat, pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Amon faces 10 charges in total, including sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 14. Following his court appearance, he was granted a bail variation, allowing him to reside at a different address, which was accepted without opposition. Despite the severity of the allegations, he chose not to address reporters outside the courtroom as he departed with supporters, amid jeers from onlookers branding him a “child abuser.”
Amon’s legal troubles began in August when he was arrested and subsequently charged with five counts of sexual intercourse with minors aged between 10 and 14. In light of these allegations, State Liberal leader Mark Speakman publicly requested Amon’s immediate resignation from the party, acknowledging the seriousness of the charges while also affirming Amon’s presumption of innocence. Speakman emphasised that the constituents of Pittwater deserved a representative who could fully engage with their needs, prompting a by-election after Amon’s resignation.
Following Amon’s departure, the formerly Liberal-dominated seat was won by Independent Jacqui Scruby in an October by-election, signifying a shift in the political landscape of the area. The case is set to return to court on March 28, as Amon’s legal journey continues amidst significant public scrutiny and concern over the nature of the allegations.
For those affected by similar issues, support services are available through 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) and the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028.