SA: Charges against alleged Rann attacker downgraded

AAP General News (Australia)
12-03-2009
SA: Charges against alleged Rann attacker downgraded

ADELAIDE, Dec 3 AAP - Charges against a man accused of assaulting South Australian
Premier Mike Rann have been downgraded.

Richard Wayne Phillips, 55, will front the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday charged
with assault - basic offence.

The estranged husband of Michelle Chantelois, who claims to have had a sexual affair
with the premier, was initially charged with the more serious offence of aggravated assault.

But documents lodged with the court show the lesser charge, which carries a maximum
penalty of two years' jail - a year shorter than the maximum prison term for aggravated
assault.

Police will allege Phillips struck the premier in the face with a rolled up magazine
at a corporate dinner on October 1.

AAP sl/jlw/dep

KEYWORD: PHILLIPS

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