The trial of Independent Mount Gambier MP Troy Bell on alleged fraud charges is expected to resume in the District Court in Adelaide this morning (Thursday).
Judge Rauf Soulio is presiding over the trial by jury which began on Tuesday.
Mr Bell is accused of misappropriating a significant amount of public funds but has repeatedly stated his innocence.
He has pleaded not guilty to
20 counts of alleged theft and six counts of alleged dishonestly dealing with documents.
The alleged offences relate to his work for an independent learning centre in Mount Gambier and prior to him being elected as a Liberal MP in 2014.
Mr Bell was charged with the alleged offences in 2017 after an investigation by South Australia’s Independent Commissioner Against Corruption.
The 50-year-old has continued with his usual parliamentary and other duties over the past seven years and was re-elected as an Independent MP in 2018 and 2022.
The Crown case was outlined by prosecutor Jemma Litster on the opening day.
The defence team is being led by barrister Nick Healy, of Elliott Johnston Chambers.
The trial is expected to last for four months and so a panel of 15 jurors is sitting rather than the usual 12.
Attorney-General Kyam Maher stated it was a “long trial” via a notice published in the June 20 edition of the Government Gazette.
Mr Bell is obliged to be in court on every day of the trial.
