Former mayor's lawyer describes private prosecution as 'nightmare'
David Penman has initiated a private prosecution against Hepburn Shire Council CEO Bradley Thomas and councillor Don Henderson for misconduct in public office. The case has been described as a 'nightmare' by Henderson's lawyer due to alleged refusals to provide evidence. A hearing is scheduled for August to address the charges and related legal matters.
- ▪David Penman filed charges against CEO Bradley Thomas and councillor Don Henderson in March.
- ▪The charges include misconduct in public office related to the use of council funds for legal services.
- ▪A hearing is set for August to further address the case and the evidence involved.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Businessman David Penman lays further charges against Hepburn councillor in private prosecutionBy investigative reporter Jesse ThompsonTopic:CourtsSat 30 May 2026 at 7:07amSat 30 May 2026 at 7:07amSat 30 May 2026 at 7:07amDavid Penman has brought the charges against the pair under local government laws. (ABC News: Jesse Thompson)In short:Daylesford businessman David Penman is attempting to prosecute the Hepburn Shire Council CEO for misconduct in public office and a councillor for a similar charge under local government laws.A lawyer representing councillor Don Henderson alleged Mr Penman had refused to hand over evidence in the case.What's next?The matter will return to court for a two-day hearing in…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).