Dumped MasterChef Australia contestant Ben Ungermann will fight allegations he sexually assaulted a teenager in Melbourne this year, with Victorian prosecutors revealing they expect to call four children to give evidence.
Key points:
- The former MasterChef contestant is facing three sexual assault charges
- Ben Ungermann's lawyer says the allegations were 'vehemently denied'
- A MasterChef host told viewers Mr Ungermann would not be returning to the show
Mr Ungermann, 36, has been charged with three counts of intentionally sexually touching a 16-year-old girl at the Docklands earlier this year.
Among the charges is an accusation that the MasterChef contestant touched the alleged victim's breast without her consent.
At an administrative hearing today, prosecutor Stephen Payne told the Melbourne Magistrates' Court that some of the witnesses may have to appear by videolink.
"It doesn't appear there's any prospect of the matter resolving at this time," Mr Payne said.
Allegations 'vehemently denied'
Days before the alleged assault, which took place on February 23, Mr Ungermann announced on his Instagram page that he would rejoin MasterChef Australia's 2020 season.
About two weeks later, he was charged by detectives from the Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team.
Mr Ungermann's departure was announced to contestants and viewers on MasterChef in May.
"Before we get to today's challenge, we've got some news. You're probably wondering where Ben is," judge Jock Zonfrillo said.
"Due to a personal matter, Ben has had to leave the competition and he will not be returning."
Mr Ungermann has denied the accusations, with his Sydney-based lawyer Adam Houda posting on Twitter: "Allegations against my client are vehemently denied and will be defended." .
Mr Ungermann is on bail and will return to court in October.
https://news.google.com/__i/rss/rd/articles/CBMibmh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmFiYy5uZXQuYXUvbmV3cy8yMDIwLTA2LTI1L21hc3RlcmNoZWYtY29udGVzdGFudC1iZW4tdW5nZXJtYW5uLWRlbmllcy1zZXgtYXNzYXVsdC1jaGFyZ2VzLzEyMzkzMzc00gEnaHR0cHM6Ly9hbXAuYWJjLm5ldC5hdS9hcnRpY2xlLzEyMzkzMzc0?oc=5
2020-06-25 06:51:54Z
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