The case of a young Greek-Australian who was convicted for rape has shocked the community of Sydney. Meanwhile, eminent Greek Diaspora members are testifying that the young man was of “good character,” while the Minister of New South Wales has criticized those who voluntarily spoke about the offender’s good conduct and the NSW Bar Association criticized the Minister for possible contempt of Justice.
A few weeks ago, 23-year-old Greek-Australian Luke Andrew Lazarus was convicted for the rape of an 18-year-old girl. His case file noted that the rape occurred in an alley behind Soho club, owned by the offender’s father at Sydney’s Kings Cross. The crime was committed in May 2013.
Last week the court imposed a five-year imprisonment sentence with right of parole after three years.
Distinguished Greek-Australians such as South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby team president, Nick Pappas, Greek Orthodox priest Gerasimos Koutsouras and salaried employee at the Honorary Consulate of Greece in Brisbane, Athanasas Tsambico (unbeknownst to the Greek diplomatic authority).
After the young man’s sentencing, the first Australian minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward verbally attacked those who signed the letter in support of the convicted Greek-Australian, saying that not only did they destroy their own credibility, but their actions would probably prevent other victims from going to the authorities. “The very last thing any victim needs is to feel as though they are not only fighting back against the perpetrator, but also against other respected members of the community,” she said.
However, the NSW Bar Association criticized the minister’s actions, warning her that her comments might amount to contempt of Justice.
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