Alan Jones’s lawyer has expressed concerns to the court regarding an “anti-Jones crusade” potentially arising from the dual role of Sydney Morning Herald journalist Kate McClymont, who is both a reporter on her client’s case and a witness. Jones, a former broadcaster, is facing 35 historical sexual assault offences allegedly committed across New South Wales, including locations such as Newtown, Sydney city, Fitzroy Falls, Alexandria, and Tamworth. He was not present at Tuesday’s committal hearing but his lawyer, Bryan Wrench, has now reviewed the brief of evidence and noted that McClymont, the journalist who initially reported the story, has also given a witness statement.
Wrench is concerned that McClymont’s involvement as a witness could influence public opinion negatively against Jones. The worry is that McClymont’s published articles on the case, which she is also a witness in, could contribute to an activist campaign against Jones. McClymont is a highly decorated journalist, having won numerous Walkley awards and been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her contributions to the field.
The case details revealed by the Sydney Morning Herald and Guardian Australia include a 35th charge against Jones following an 11th alleged victim coming forward. The victim accuses Jones of grabbing and squeezing their bottom in Tamworth in June 2013. Initially, media reports about indecent assault allegations against Jones were first brought to light by McClymont in December 2023. Wrench further raised concerns about the media’s awareness of the additional charge against his client, which he feels could point to an issue with preemptive disclosure of evidence.
Magistrate Daniel Covington responded to Wrench’s concerns by suggesting that such issues should be directed to the Office of the Department of Public Prosecutions. The magistrate stated that he would not entertain those concerns in the current court setting. Wrench also confirmed that Jones has entered a plea of not guilty, although the magistrate noted that formal pleas could not yet be entered and adjourned the matter to May 13th.
Bevan Shields, the Sydney Morning Herald’s editor, defended McClymont’s work on the matter, emphasizing the newspaper’s commitment to their reporting. According to the police brief for the latest charge, Jones is accused of assaulting the victim while committing an indecent act. Jones, who is 84 years old, was arrested on November 18th, following an extensive investigation and currently faces additional charges, reflecting the ongoing nature of the case and the anticipation of more individuals coming forward with allegations.
Outside court, following his initial appearance, Jones denied the allegations and affirmed his belief in his innocence, stating that he would not be commenting any further in the media.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/mar/11/alan-jones-lawyer-concern-smh-journalist-reporting-on-broadcaster-sexual-assault-charges-ntwnfb
