Content Warning: this article deals with domestic violence and may be triggering for some readers.
Troubled former television host Andrew O’Keefe has fronted court regarding an alleged altercation that took place in a Sydney apartment last year.
O’Keefe, 51, appeared in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Monday, February 6 for a two-day hearing in which he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
In 2022, O’Keefe was arrested and charged for the alleged assault of a woman in a Sydney apartment.
Police alleged that a man grabbed the woman by the throat, pushed her to the ground and punched her.
O’Keefe was arrested on Thursday, January 27, 2022 in relation to the incident and was later charged with two counts of ‘intentionally choking a person without consent’, three counts of ‘common assault’ and one count of ‘assault occasioning actual bodily harm’.
“A verbal argument ensued between the pair, before the man allegedly assaulted the woman — grabbing her by the throat, pushing her to the ground and punching her,” a police statement said.
“The man allegedly assaulted the woman a second time — punching and kicking her — before she left the unit.”
During Monday’s hearing Police prosecutor Michael Cleaver withdrew several intentional choking, common assault and assault occasioning bodily harm charges.
“The prosecution case relies significantly on one single civilian witness who has left the country,” Cleaver told the court.
O’Keefe is still facing charges of resisting police, drug possession and domestic violence charges.
The hearing remains ongoing.
O’Keefe’s recent appearance in court adds to an already tumultuous period for the former media personality, after he was arrested and charged for allegedly breaching the conditions of his bail in November, 2022
According to a police statement at the time, O’Keefe was arrested at a Vaucluse on the morning of Thursday, November 24.
“About 10.40am today officers from Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command attended a home at Vaucluse and spoke to the occupant, a 51-year-old man,” police said in a statement.
“He was arrested and taken to Waverley Police Station where he was charged with breach of bail.”
O’Keefe appeared in Waverley Local Court the following day where the court heard that he had allegedly failed a drug test.
O’Keefe’s barrister Sebastian De Brennan argued that the drug test could have possibly been contaminated.
Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge granted O’Keefe’s bail under strict conditions.
Outside of court, O’Keefe addressed a throng of reporters where he vented his frustration with the legal system while defending himself against the charges.
“You don’t get to hear the story,” he told reporters.
“The thing about the justice system is that we get no time to prepare as the defendant.”
He was then asked about the alleged failed drug test.
“That’s what we discovered in court today, that there’s a high probability of contamination,” he replied.
If you are concerned about violence or misconduct impacting you or your loved ones, contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service — 1800 737 732, Mensline Australia — 1300 789 978, Relationships Australia — 1300 364 277, BeyondBlue — 1300 224 636; Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467; Headspace — 1800 650 890; Kids Helpline — 1800 551 800; Lifeline Australia — 13 11 14, for confidential support, advice and referral that will help you explore your options.