November 12th 2024.
A judge of the Supreme Court, who has been found guilty of assaulting and emotionally abusing his then-partner, has made the decision to resign from his position. This comes after the incident where Tasmanian Justice Gregory Geason struck the woman at a Hobart home in October 2023, causing her to fall and suffer a concussion and bruising. Geason was charged and found guilty of assault and emotional abuse or intimidation, which included tracking the woman's movements, being jealous, aggressive, and using derogatory language towards her.
During the sentencing hearing, Geason's lawyer, Fabiano Cangelosi, informed the court that his client would be stepping down from his role as a Supreme Court judge. Cangelosi stated, "He considers that he has lost the moral authority necessary for any judicial officer to sit in judgment over other human beings." He also mentioned that Geason has come to the realization that he is not fit to continue as a judge. This decision comes after Tasmania's parliament failed to suspend Geason in December due to constitutional concerns.
There is no set date for Geason's resignation, but it is expected to happen on Thursday. Cangelosi stated that it is likely that parliament will try to remove Geason from his position following his guilty verdict and recent changes in laws. Cangelosi also mentioned that Geason had already made a written undertaking to not serve as a judge until the conclusion of the criminal proceedings. He added, "The destruction of his public image and professional life is total."
The court was informed that the maximum penalties for common assault and emotional abuse were 12 months in jail and a $4040 fine, and two years in jail and a $8080 fine, respectively. Cangelosi argued that Geason posed a minimal risk of reoffending and that his actions were out of character. He also stated, "He loved [the woman]. There remains clear evidence of his support for her during the relationship, both emotionally and materially."
On the other hand, Director of Public Prosecutions Daryl Coates SC argued that Geason's assault was a severe example of common assault and that he should be given a jail term, suspended or not. He mentioned that the assault was fueled by jealousy and a desire to control the woman, resulting in extensive bruising and a concussion.
In a statement read to the court via video link, the woman expressed how the incident had impacted her. She stated that she had to spend months in the hospital, was unable to work for eight months, and was no longer the same person. She also mentioned that she had become a recluse, constantly looked over her shoulder, and even set up video cameras around her home for her safety. She tearfully asked, "How could someone I loved and respected...do this to me?"
Magistrate Susan Wakeling, who presided over the case, found the woman to be a truthful witness and stated that Geason's version of events where he claimed the woman fell was "contrived and implausible." Geason has also pleaded guilty to breaching a family violence order in a court in New South Wales and is expected to be sentenced in December.
For those who have experienced sexual assault or domestic family violence, support is available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT. And for the latest news, sports, politics, and weather updates, you can download the 9NEWS app on the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Stay informed, stay safe.
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