Reynolds denies helping Lehrmann during rape trial
Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds has denied trying to help accused rapist Bruce Lehrmann during his criminal trial as her defamation stoush with Brittany Higgins continues.
The former defence minister is suing Ms Higgins for defamation over a series of social media posts containing alleged mistruths that she believes have damaged her reputation.
The former staffer’s lawyer, Rachael Young, questioned the senator about a series of text messages sent between her and Mr Lehermann’s lawyer during the rape trial in October 2022.
In one, the lawyer said” “Hope you travelling okay. Hang in there. Karma comes to those who wait”.
Asked about it, the retiring senator said it was a logical conclusion the lawyer was referring to Ms Higgins receiving an unfavourable outcome in the trial.
Senator Reynolds also denied the 21 messages between her and the lawyer were a bid to help Mr Lehrmann’s lawyer discredit Ms Higgins at the rape trial.
“I did nothing to help Bruce Lehrmann … I did not hold him in high opinion, which is why I sacked him … so I was in no way seeking to assist his defence,” she said.
Senator Reynolds agreed she wanted to follow the rape trial because it related to the allegations Ms Higgins had put against her and she requested the lawyer send her transcripts – to which he replied it wasn’t appropriate.
The court heard the lawyer said it was for the senator’s protection given she was scheduled to give evidence at the trial.
Senator Reynolds denied she wanted the transcripts so she could help Mr Lehrmann challenge Ms Higgins’ credibility.
The court heard the senator also sent Mr Lehrmann’s lawyer photos of Ms Higgins walking into the court to give evidence at the trial.
“I probably shouldn’t have sent them … I was a bit catty,” she said.
“She had stolen my jacket and … What personally annoyed me was how I perceived it as imitating Kate Middleton … I’m not saying it makes great rational sense,” she said.
“Did you ever stop to think Ms Higgins was trying to cover herself up when she left Parliament House (after her alleged rape)?” Ms Young asked.
“I have absolutely, if she’d returned (the jacket) I would have said ‘no problem’ … but I never got it back,” the senator said.
The trial continues on Friday with Senator Reynolds giving evidence.
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