The domestic assault case against Olympic boxer Harry Garside has been dropped.
Garside was arrested last month at Sydney International Airport and charged with one count of domestic violence-related common assault over an alleged incident on March 1, at Bellevue Hill in Sydney’s east.
The 25-year-old appeared at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday where the charge and an apprehended violence order application were formally withdrawn.
“Today I have been vindicated,” Garside said in a social media post.
“Moments ago the police prosecutor informed the court that they have dropped all matters against me.
“I am thankful for the diligence of the police in reviewing the overwhelming evidence in my favour and quickly moving to withdraw the proceedings.”
According to Garside, his lawyers provided “recordings and communications” to police that cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Garside said the ordeal has been personally devastating, as he prepares to face qualifications for the 2024 Paris Olympics,
“Last month I returned from South Africa feeling motivated and optimistic about my future,” he said about returning from filming on Network Ten’s I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!
“What has occurred since has been personally devastating and a real test of my resilience. I will be forever grateful for the love and support of my family and friends who have kept me strong and focused.
“I am determined to move on from this with gratitude and renewed energy towards qualifying for Paris 2024.”
Garside was represented by high-profile defamation barrister Sue Chrysanthou.
From the outset of his arrest Garside denied the allegation and said he disputed the account that was given to police.
“I have nothing to hide and will defend myself against this charge,” he said at the time.
The men’s lightweight boxer won the bronze medal for Australia at the Toyko 2020 Olympics.
He has won seven national boxing championships.
He finished second behind former netballer Liz Ellis in the latest edition of the I’m a Celebrity reality TV show.
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– AAP
