Police are investigating after a NSW MP accused One Nation’s Mark Latham of harassment.
Independent Sydney MP Alex Greenwich said on Monday morning he plans to sue Latham over comments made in a widely criticised tweet last month.
Latham in the tweet made graphic comments about Greenwich’s sexuality.
“I’ve been openly gay in public life for 15 years and in NSW Parliament for over 10 years, and never have I experienced such a homophobic, sexualised attack that exposed me to contempt, ridicule and extreme abuse, based on my sexuality,” Greenwich said in a statement.
NSW Police confirmed to Crikey they were investigating.
“Officers attached to Surry Hills Police Area Command have commenced an investigation after receiving reports of online harassment directed at a 42-year-old man. Inquiries are continuing,” a police spokeswoman wrote in response to an email asking for comment on Greenwich’s statement.
Greenwich said he had also lodged a complaint of homosexual vilification with the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW, but the board refused to comment, citing secrecy provisions.
Greenwich’s reports to authorities came after Latham doubled down on his comments in an appearance on a radio show hosted by ex-Sky News Australia host Chris Smith.
“There will be no apology for Greenwich,” Latham said on the program on radio platform TNT.
Latham said he posted the March 30 tweet because Greenwich called him “disgusting” after LGBTQIA+ protesters were attacked outside a NSW election event where Latham was speaking.
“He defamed me severely,” Latham told the radio show.
Greenwich said he has engaged lawyers and that he will sue Latham for defamation unless the NSW One Nation leader apologises.
“Enough is enough,” Greenwich said in his statement.
Crikey has contacted Latham for comment.
