NSW: Latham skips court appearance

AAP General News (Australia)
04-26-2006
NSW: Latham skips court appearance

SYDNEY, April 26 AAP - Former federal opposition leader Mark Latham has avoided the
cameras once again by opting for a second time not to front a Sydney court on charges
of theft and assault.

Latham is charged with attacking News Ltd photographer Ross Schultz at a local fast
food outlet on January 19.

The former federal Labor leader did not appear in Campbelltown Local Court today but
was represented by his lawyer Philip Sim.

Police prosecutor David Stewart successfully applied for a four-week adjournment while
he waited for parts of the brief against Mr Latham to be supplied.

The matter was adjourned to the same court on May 24 for reply.

Latham, 44, is charged with common assault, malicious damage and stealing from a person.

He is accused of stealing Mr Schultz's camera and attempting to punch the photographer
when he demanded it back.

He is also accused of destroying the $9,000 digital camera.

AAP nr/tam/rj/nf

KEYWORD: LATHAM

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