Verdict Delivered After Decades-Old Allegations
Barry Cable, a figure once lauded in Australian rules football, has been found not guilty of charges related to historical child sexual abuse. The verdict, delivered on Monday by Judge Michael Bowden at the Perth District Court, dismisses all counts against the 82-year-old former player. These allegations stemmed from events purportedly occurring in the 1960s, involving a girl then aged around eight or nine.
The former footballer faced five counts of indecently dealing with a girl under 13 and two counts of unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl under 13. The prosecution's case centred on claims that the alleged abuse took place at Cable's family home while the complainant was staying with him and his wife, Helen, for approximately a month. The complainant reportedly came forward in 2023, stating that seeing Cable on television had triggered memories of the alleged incidents.
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Trial Details and Defence
Cable consistently denied the charges throughout the judge-alone criminal trial. The court heard testimony from the complainant, who recounted alleged instances of abuse, including fondling and indecent touching. Specific allegations mentioned spa incidents in Melbourne, where the complainant stated she was sitting on Cable's lap and could feel his body against hers. She also testified about an incident where Cable allegedly struck her and took off his shorts, touching her indecently.
The defence highlighted the complainant's initial uncertainty regarding the precise location of the alleged incidents, with her recalling the house in either Scarborough or Thornlie. A significant aspect of the defence involved sworn evidence from Helen Percy, Cable's wife. Cable's lawyer, Tom Percy, argued that this testimony provided a crucial blow to the prosecution's case, suggesting Cable should be spared jail time. The complainant, according to one report, had initially believed Cable would not be believed due to his public profile, but she also recalled him telling her she wouldn't be believed.
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Background of the Case
The allegations resurfaced decades after the alleged events, prompting a police investigation in 2023. The case proceeded to a criminal trial, focusing on events that are reported to have occurred more than 50, and potentially 60, years ago. The acquittal means Cable will walk free from court.
