Man allegedly behind 'targeted' attack on Australian lawmaker due in court
WANGARATTA: The man alleged to have critically wounded Australian lawmaker Helen Haines in a “targeted” attack was due to appear in court on Wednesday, as police warned that growing extremism online was fuelling political polarisation.
Brendan Nugent, 43, faces multiple charges after allegedly critically injuring Australian lawmaker Helen Haines with a car on Monday near her office in Wangaratta, Victoria. Haines remains in a critical but stable condition at a Melbourne hospital following the attack, which struck her while she was standing near her car. Nugent, due in court on Wednesday, has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and harming a public official, a federal offence punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The motive behind the attack is unknown, but police are investigating various leads, including the possibility of radical anti-government views. Victoria Police Commissioner Mike Bush stated that authorities are examining social media associations, as well as speaking with witnesses, friends, and colleagues. Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett warned that growing extremist views online are contributing to political polarization.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed his support for Haines, who has been lauded for her efforts to increase transparency in politics and combat corruption.
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