Newcastle, Australia – Anthony Di Nardo, a prominent figure in the Newcastle real estate sector, has been released from house arrest following a court decision to vary his bail conditions. This change comes after Di Nardo was charged with multiple counts of sexual and indecent assault involving former employees.
Di Nardo, 53, was initially arrested on December 9, facing allegations of sexual misconduct spanning 16 years. The charges involve five former female staff members of Belle Property, a company that severed ties with him on November 28. The Newcastle Local Court reviewed his bail conditions on Monday, deeming them excessive in relation to the charges.
Legal Arguments and Court Decision
During the court proceedings, defense lawyer Drew Hamilton argued that the stringent bail conditions were not justified. “Section 20A of the Bail Act dictates when conditions should be put on bail, and those conditions have got to be proportionate, reasonable and necessary to address a risk,” Hamilton stated, emphasizing that the house arrest could last up to two years, which he described as “grossly disproportionate.”
Hamilton highlighted the impact of the bail conditions on Di Nardo’s ability to manage his business and attend necessary appointments, asserting that his client had been unfairly targeted by a public “campaign” that had made him highly visible in Newcastle.
“This is going to be a defended trial. Mr Di Nardo would be under house arrest for two years, which is grossly disproportionate to the charges that are before the court,” said Drew Hamilton, defense lawyer.
Despite police opposition, which cited concerns about Di Nardo potentially contacting witnesses, Magistrate Robyn Richardson ruled that the conditions were more burdensome than necessary. Consequently, the curfew was lifted, allowing Di Nardo to remain on licensed premises until 11 pm, provided he adheres to other bail conditions.
Conditions and Future Proceedings
Under the revised bail terms, Di Nardo must not contact any prosecution witnesses, except through legal representation, and is prohibited from approaching staff at specific real estate agencies. Additionally, he is barred from consuming alcohol or drugs unless prescribed, must surrender his passports, and report to police twice weekly.
The case is set to return to Newcastle Local Court on February 11, where Di Nardo will continue to face charges including sexual intercourse without consent, indecent assault, and stalking. He has yet to enter pleas for these charges.
Background and Broader Implications
The charges against Di Nardo stem from a police investigation initiated in March 2025, known as Strike Force Agnes. This investigation followed reports of alleged indecent assaults, uncovering incidents dating from 2005 to 2022. The allegations have cast a shadow over Newcastle’s real estate community, raising questions about workplace culture and the protection of employees.
Experts in legal and employment fields have noted the significance of this case in highlighting the importance of proportionate legal measures and the potential consequences of public opinion on judicial proceedings. The case underscores the delicate balance between ensuring justice and maintaining fairness in pre-trial conditions.
“The well-being of our people is our highest priority, and we have acted swiftly in response,” a spokesperson for Belle Property stated regarding the allegations.
As the case progresses, it remains a focal point for discussions on legal practices and the responsibilities of employers in safeguarding their staff. The outcome could have lasting implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.
Di Nardo’s situation continues to evolve, with the next court date set to potentially bring further developments. The legal community and public alike will be watching closely as this high-profile case unfolds.
