Vic: Thomas terror trial delayed

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

MELBOURNE, April 26 AAP - The trial of 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 today heard Thomas' barristers Lex Lasry QC and Mark Taft
SC had withdrawn from the case because they may have to give evidence at his trial.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 proceedings, also
because he may be called to give evidence.

Justice Bill Gillard said it was unfortunate these matters were not raised before the
trial was due to start.

He said Thomas' new lawyer would now need time to find new counsel.

Justice Gillard said the next available date for the trial would be September and adjourned
the matter for a date to be fixed.

AAP mok/gfr/cjh/cdh

KEYWORD: THOMAS

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.