Rape charges dropped against Warrnambool lawyer

A Warrnambool lawyer has thanked his legal team after charges were dropped against him.

In January 2020 The Standard reported long-time Warrnambool lawyer Basil Fogarty had been charged with several counts of rape, indecent assault, using a carriage service to harass and stalking.

Now Mr Fogarty said his stance in relation to the charges had never changed.

"I have always maintained my innocence in respect of the charges," he said.

"I thank my legal team and those who have supported me during this period."

Last month the Office of Public Prosecution made an application to the County Court to discontinue the charges, which had been laid by a Warrnambool police sex offences and child abuse investigation team detective.

The application was approved by County Court Judge Fiona Todd.

Friday: Sex charges have been dropped against a Warrnambool solicitor.

In January 2020 The Standard reported long-time Warrnambool lawyer Basil Fogarty had been charged with several counts of rape, indecent assault, using a carriage service to harass and stalking.

At that time Mr Fogarty's matter was adjourned to a further hearing in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court.

But last month the Office of Public Prosecution made an application to the County Court to discontinue the charges, which had been laid by a Warrnambool police sex offences and child abuse investigation team detective.

The application was approved by County Court Judge Fiona Todd.

Mr Fogarty has been contacted for comment.

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