Former television presenter Andrew O’Keefe has managed to avoid jail time after being found guilty of multiple offenses related to domestic violence and drug possession.
Facing charges of assault causing actual bodily harm, breaching a domestic violence order and possession of the synthetic stimulant drug mephedrone, O’Keefe received the judgment from Magistrate Alison Viney at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, January 24.
Magistrate Viney deemed O’Keefe’s actions in kicking, spitting, scratching and otherwise assaulting a woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, were proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
“Your actions were violent and degrading,” she told the court.
“You placed (the victim) in a position of fear, not only for herself but for her children in her own home.
“Your actions are absolutely condemned.”
O’Keefe avoided having to serve any jail time, instead, he was sentenced to one 12-month and three 18-month community corrections orders, incorporating supervision and reporting obligations. Additionally, he was fined $800 for drug-related offenses.
The court expressed concern over O’Keefe’s repeated violation of the apprehended domestic violence order by contacting the victim. Although O’Keefe had previously pleaded guilty to contravening the order and possessing cannabis, he denied other charges related to assault and drug possession.
The magistrate described his behaviour over multiple incidents in September 2021 as “frightening and degrading” for the victim, noting the consistency in her evidence. The court heard O’Keefe called the woman a “lying dog” and a “c***”, and he was accused of assaulting her on multiple occasions.
Throughout the judgment, O’Keefe, clad in a teal-green suit, displayed agitation and muttered, occasionally shaking his head in disagreement. The magistrate’s findings highlighted the severity of O’Keefe’s actions, supported by numerous photographs depicting the victim’s injuries, including bruising and scratches on her arms and chest, submitted during earlier hearings.
O’Keefe denied the woman’s accusations in 2023, telling the court: “None of this happened.”
He had previous charges dismissed on mental health grounds following an incident in January 2021, during which he slapped the woman and spat in her face.
-with AAP.
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.