Former AFL Player Shaun Edwards Pleads Not Guilty to Assault and Choking Charges
Former AFL player and House of Darwin founder Shaun Edwards has pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated assault, choking, and strangling in the Darwin Local Court. The charges stem from an alleged domestic violence incident in May of the previous year. Mr. Edwards is also contesting a related temporary restraining order, which a judge has ruled will be heard concurrently with the criminal proceedings.
Court Proceedings: Not Guilty Plea Entered
Shaun Edwards appeared in Darwin Local Court, represented by his lawyer, Vanessa Farmer, to face charges of aggravated assault, choking, and strangling. Mr. Edwards, who was not present in court, intends to plead not guilty to all criminal charges.
The charges relate to an alleged domestic violence incident that occurred in May of last year. The case is scheduled to return to court on May 18, an appearance Mr. Edwards is not required to attend in person.
Domestic Violence Order (DVO)
A temporary restraining order, known as a Domestic Violence Order (DVO), has been in place against Mr. Edwards since June. He intends to contest this order, which is directly linked to the assault allegations.
Concurrency Ruling
Judge Therese Austin granted a request from NT Police and the alleged victim for the DVO application to be heard alongside the criminal proceedings.
Judge Austin stated that holding two separate hearings would be prejudicial to Mr. Edwards and not in the interests of justice, as it would require the protected person and witnesses to give evidence and be cross-examined twice on the same issues.
Ms. Farmer expressed her client's desire to have the DVO lifted before the criminal charges are resolved, noting the potential for a lengthy legal process and the impact of the order on his work and businesses. The DVO, issued in June, could potentially remain in place for up to 18 months if not heard concurrently. No breaches of the order have been reported.
Background: Shaun Edwards and House of Darwin
Shaun Edwards founded the fashion label House of Darwin in 2020. The business has since expanded to include a charitable foundation that supports sports, education, and social initiatives in the Northern Territory. House of Darwin has gained international recognition through collaborations and media features.
Mr. Edwards is also listed as a director of the creative consultancy Going North. This week, House of Darwin announced an official partnership with the Bass in the Grass music festival, unveiling festival merchandise.