Former South Australian Liberal Leader David Speirs Granted Permission to Travel Overseas
A court has granted permission for former South Australian Liberal leader David Speirs to travel overseas, at his first appearance on a drug charge.
Details of the Case
Speirs originally faced two charges of supplying a controlled substance from August 2-3 and on August 9, but one charge was dropped and the other has been varied. He is now charged with supplying or administering a drug (not cannabis) to another person between August 1 and August 10 at Kingston Park.
Permission to Travel Overseas
In court, his lawyer Dominic Agresta asked that his client’s bail be varied to allow him to travel overseas. Prosecutors agreed that Speirs’ passport be returned to him but he must lodge his itinerary with police and provide a guarantor for $15,000, with a similar cash surety.
- No details of his destination were given in court
- He was ordered to report to police on his return from overseas and hand back his passport
Speirs’ Statement
Outside court, Speirs said he would not talk specifically about what happened in court. He thanked the “many hundreds of people in South Australia who have been so supportive of me and have reached out to see if I’m OK”.
- He acknowledged the difficult time for him personally, friends, and family members
- He resigned from parliament on October 15
Support for Amanda Wilson
He said the Liberal candidate, Amanda Wilson, had been subjected to the “brutal Labor Party machine in the same way that I have over the years”. He expressed support for her and wished her all the best.
Allegations and Response
On September 9, News Corp published a video purportedly showing Speirs snorting a powder. He declared the footage to be a “deepfake” and vowed to clear his name. Two days later, he took medical leave, citing distress and vulnerability.
On October 5, Speirs released a video statement saying he did not believe he could “adequately and effectively serve my local community while also dealing with this matter, protecting my mental health and supporting my family and friends”. His case returns to court on March 4.
Conclusion
The case of former South Australian Liberal leader David Speirs has taken a new turn with the court granting him permission to travel overseas. Despite the legal challenges he faces, Speirs remains grateful for the support he has received and continues to express his commitment to serving his community.
FAQs about David Speirs’ Case
1. What are the charges against David Speirs?
David Speirs faces a charge of supplying or administering a drug (not cannabis) to another person between August 1 and August 10 at Kingston Park.
2. Why did David Speirs resign from parliament?
David Speirs resigned from parliament on October 15, citing the need to focus on his mental health and wellbeing amidst the legal proceedings.
3. When is David Speirs’ next court appearance?
David Speirs’ case is scheduled to return to court on March 4 for further proceedings.