Domestic violence charges against Olympic boxer Harry Garside have been dropped after the court was informed of video footage that allegedly showed his ex-partner Ash Ruscoe as the aggressor.
The 25-year-old was taken into custody at Sydney International Airport on May 2 as he returned from South Africa after filming I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! Australia 2023.
At the time, NSW Police arrested the athlete and charged him with a domestic violence charge of common assault against his ex-partner.
**CONTENT WARNING: This article refers to domestic abuse and may be distressing for some readers.
Garside appeared at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on May 24 alongside defamation lawyer Sue Chrysanthou and solicitor Rebekah Giles.
The reality star sat in the public gallery beside Ms Giles as Ms Chrysanthou told the court she had made ‘substantial representations’ to police in relation to additional material that police didn’t have access to.
“In particular a video of the incident in question which we say shows the complainant as the aggressor,” Ms Chrysanthou said.
“Other material where she has made threats about going to police to make fake complaints.”
The matter was then adjourned for two weeks.
However, according to reports, the police dropped all charges against Garside in court on June 7.
“There shouldn’t have been any charges in this case but my client is content with the speed at which my friend has moved,” Ms Chrysanthou said.
Harry Garside shares a statement to Instagram
Once the charges were dropped, Garside posted a statement to Instagram.
“Today I have been vindicated,” he wrote.
“Moments ago the Police Prosecutor informed the court that they have dropped all matters against me.
“This was because my lawyers provided the recordings and communications that gave the Police a full understanding of what happened.
“Last month, I returned from South Africa feeling motivated and optimistic about my future. What has occurred since has been personally devastating and a real test of my resilience.
“I will be forever grateful for the love and support of my family and friends who have kept me strong and focused.
“I am determined to move on from this with gratitude and renewed energy towards qualifying for Paris 2024,” he added.
According to an outlet, Garside told reporters outside the court that the charges had taken a “massive toll” on his family, especially his mother who’s battling cancer.
“She was almost more stressed about this than she was about what she’s going through,” he said.
“At least now she can focus on herself and her wellbeing.”
Garside thanked the police for their “diligence in reviewing the overwhelming evidence in [his] favour” and dropping the charges.
“I’m absolutely stoked. It’s a great day,” he told reporters.
Harry Garside said he had “nothing to hide”
This comes after Garside said he had “nothing to hide” in an Instagram statement on May 3.
“The conduct of police in the presence of the media at Sydney International Airport yesterday took me completely by surprise,” Garside wrote.
“I categorically deny the allegations of violence and dispute the account given to the police.
“I have nothing to hide and will defend myself against this charge.
“The police have not been provided with all of the facts and I am confident that my reputation will be vindicated through the legal process.
“Because the matter is before the courts, I won’t be saying anything further,” he concluded.
Why was Harry Garside charged with domestic violence?
According to The Daily Telegraph, police alleged that Garside hit Ruscoe on the head with his elbow. It’s been alleged that there was also a physical clash over a mobile phone.
At the time of the alleged assault, the reality star was reportedly visiting Ruscoe’s apartment in Bondi to retrieve his possessions after their breakup.
The NSW Police released the following statement about the arrest:
“Last month, officers from Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command commenced an investigation into reports of an alleged domestic violence-related incident at Bellevue Hill on Wednesday 1 March 2023.
“Following inquiries, a 25-year-old man was arrested at Sydney International Airport at about 2.40 pm today (Tuesday 2 May 2023). He was taken to Mascot Police Station and charged with common assault (DV). He was granted conditional bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday 24 May 2023.”
If you or anyone you know is struggling and needs support, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14, both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also talk to someone from 1800RESPECT via online chat. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
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