Vic: Thomas terror trial delayed

AAP General News (Australia)
04-26-2007
Vic: Thomas terror trial delayed

The trial for a Melbourne man facing terrorism-related charges has been delayed ..

after his barristers pulled out of the proceedings.

JOSEPH TERRENCE THOMAS was due to stand trial in the Victorian Supreme Court this month.

The 33-year-old has pleaded not guilty to intentionally receiving funds from a terrorist
organisation .. and possessing a falsified Australian passport.

The Victorian Supreme Court was told today his barristers LEX LASRY QC .. and MARK
TAFT SC have withdrawn from the case .. because they may have to give evidence at his
trial.

This comes after his solicitor ROB STARY earlier pulled out of the trial .. also because
he may be called to give evidence.

Justice BILL GILLARD says it's unfortunate these issues weren't raised before the trial
was due to start .. THOMAS' new lawyer will now need time to find new counsel.

He says the next available date for the trial will be September .. and adjourned the
case for a date to be fixed.

AAP RTV mok/gfr/af/bart

KEYWORD: THOMAS (MELBOURNE)

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