Higgins in hospital
Rape charges dropped
BRITTANY Higgins has confirmed she is undergoing mental health treatment in a Queensland-based hospital after the “unrelenting” pressure of recent years.
The former Liberal staffer granted permission for her friend and supporter Emma Webster to release the following statement.
“Brittany is in hospital getting the treatment and support she needs,’’ Ms Webster said.
“The last couple of years have been difficult and unrelenting.”
“While it’s disappointing the trial has ended this way, Brittany’s health and safety must always come first.”
“Brittany is extremely grateful for all the support she has received, particularly from our mental health care workers.” Ms Higgins went public with an allegation she was sexually assaulted at Parliament House in February, 2021.
A former colleague, Bruce Lehrmann was charged with one count of sex without consent in August, 2021.
He has always maintained his innocence and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
New evidence that the “ongoing trauma” associated with the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann poses an unacceptable risk to the life of the complainant Brittany Higgins has prompted prosecutors to drop the rape charge and not proceed with a second trial.
ACT director of public prosecutions Shane Drumgold confirmed he had reviewed new medical evidence.
“I have received compelling evidence from two independent medical experts, that the ongoing trauma associated with this prosecution presents an unacceptable and significant risk to the life of the complainant,’’ he said.