McGoogan pleads not guilty to assault charges

The matter was heard in the ACT Law Courts earlier today. Photo: Michelle Kroll.

CONTENT WARNING: This article may distress some readers.

A 37-year-old Kingston man has entered not guilty pleas to assault charges brought in April.

Court documents allege that on two separate occasions, Michael James McGoogan was involved in violent arguments with a woman that were reported to police.

Mr McGoogan stood aside from his role as co-CEO of Region, publisher of the Riotact website, after he was arrested by police on 19 April, during which it is alleged he did not comply with the officers’ requests.

He was charged with two counts of assault and one count of resisting a public official. He appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court today (3 May) to apply for a bail variation, represented by Kamy Saeedi of Kamy Saeedi Law.

Mr Saeedi and prosecutor Corinne Kennedy told the court the alleged victim supported the changes to Mr McGoogan’s bail.

Magistrate Glenn Theakston agreed to vary the bail conditions, allowing him to have contact with the complainant and be within 100 metres of her.

He is also allowed at an address if the alleged victim provides written consent.

Mr Saeedi said the alleged assaults occurred late at night and involved alcohol. He told the court the complainant wanted to have contact with Mr McGoogan.

The matter is scheduled to return to court on 18 June.

Anyone impacted by domestic or family violence can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Full Stop Australia on 1800 385 578.

Local support services include the Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) on 6280 0900, and Victim Support ACT on 1800 822 272 or 6205 2022.

If this reporting has raised mental health concerns for you, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.