Sydney financier denies six domestic violence charges brought by former girlfriend
Sydney financier Thomas Christopher Fennell, 53, has appeared in court accused of assaulting his 21-year-old former girlfriend, Mackenzie Bridgewood. He faces six domestic violence charges, which his lawyer says he denies and will contest.
The alleged incidents are said to have occurred about five and a half months ago, and Bridgewood reportedly contacted police on Friday. Fennell was granted bail to live at his Bellevue Hill home despite prosecution opposition; his case is due back at Waverley Court on 12 November. His lawyer said Fennell’s paternity of Bridgewood’s reported pregnancy has not been confirmed.
In short
- Financier Thomas Fennell faces six domestic violence charges.
- He denies the allegations and will contest them.
- His case returns to court on 12 November.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The prosecution’s case for opposing bail may rest on the seriousness of six alleged domestic violence offences and the need to protect the complainant while the case is pending. Bail conditions and residence restrictions can reduce risks, but the court must weigh whether they offer adequate protection in the circumstances.
The case against
Fennell is entitled to the presumption of innocence and to contest the charges, which have not been tested at trial. If the court considers that he can attend future hearings and that suitable conditions can manage any risks, granting bail allows him to remain at home without treating allegations as proven.
Explained simply
In New South Wales, domestic violence charges are criminal allegations dealt with by the courts. A charge is not a finding of guilt, and the prosecution must prove its case.
Thomas Christopher Fennell is a Sydney financier accused of offences against his former girlfriend, Mackenzie Bridgewood. His lawyer says he denies the allegations and will contest them; the court process will determine how the case proceeds.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “Wealthy ‘playboy’ financier hit with multiple domestic violence charges against glamorous ex-girlfriend”.