The man once lauded as the hero of Bondi Beach is now fighting a criminal charge. A British tourist who tackled a knife-wielding attacker on the sands last summer has pleaded not guilty to an assault charge. The case has taken a political turn.
The British Consulate is monitoring the proceedings. Sources suggest Whitehall is wary of an extradition demand if the verdict goes against him. Downing Street is staying quiet.
But the mood in the Foreign Office is tense. The charge stems from an incident three years ago in Manchester. A pub brawl.
The alleged victim is a known football hooligan. The defence will argue self-defence. The Crown Prosecution Service in London is said to be reluctant to push for extradition.
But Australian prosecutors are feeling the heat. The trial is set for Sydney Crown Court. The hero’s legal team is confident.
However, the politics is messy. No one wants to see a British hero locked up in a foreign jail. But the rule of law must apply.
Expect a quiet diplomatic scramble behind the scenes.
