Embattled former TV presenter Andrew O’Keefe will fight charges, including intimidation and trespassing, by arguing he was not in a legally culpable state of mind at the time of the alleged offences.
However, a magistrate said O’Keefe’s recent criminal history – which includes domestic violence and drug convictions – could work against him.
Former TV host Andrew O’Keefe outside Waverley police station earlier this month.Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
The former Network Seven star was charged with trespassing, stalking or intimidation and contravening a court order following an incident at a property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs in July. He is accused of putting his foot in the door of the alleged victim’s home and threatening another person outside the property.
O’Keefe, 52, appeared at Waverley Local Court on Thursday, when his lawyer, Jahan Kalantar, formally entered pleas of not guilty to all the charges. He foreshadowed the 52-year-old would apply to have the allegations dealt with on mental health grounds.
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Under the relevant laws, a magistrate can dismiss charges if the accused is released into the care of a responsible person or undergoes treatment, but magistrate Jacqueline Milledge said O’Keefe’s criminal history might work against him in attempting to get the court to accept the argument.
O’Keefe was arrested hours after appearing in court on another matter in early August when he pleaded guilty to driving while his licence was suspended.
Speaking outside court after receiving a non-conviction for the driving offence, O’Keefe was asked if things were “all up from here” and said he hoped so.
“There’s a bit to go, but we’ll find out shortly,” he said.
O’Keefe was a Seven presenter for more than 15 years, most notably hosting the game show Deal or No Deal and the breakfast show Weekend Sunrise.
O’Keefe is also appealing against convictions recorded in January for domestic violence and drug possession offences.
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