New medical emergency hits Guy Sebastian trial
Guy Sebastian’s trial against his former manager faces more delays after another medical emergency unfolded just days after the presiding judge suddenly passed away.
One of the jurors was rushed to hospital after suffering a severe allergic reaction during the lunch break - prompting the new judge to question whether it is practical for the trial to continue, as reported by 7News.
Judge Timothy Gartelmann announced that he would be taking over the trial on Monday, and with several jurors handing him notes raising concerns about future commitments, he said he would deliberate overnight once he found out about the welfare of the ill juror.
“I will then make a decision about whether or not it is practical for individual jurors and indeed the trial itself to continue,” he said.
Sebastian’s former manager, Titus Emmanuel Day, has pleaded not guilty to 50 charges, including allegedly embezzling money owed to Sebastian through royalties and performance fees, as well as 50 alternative counts of larceny.
Beginning his testimony on Wednesday, May 4, the Voice judge testified that Day promised him 10 percent equity in his company 6 Degrees - which Day managed him through for nearly a decade - in recognition of his importance as a “foundation client” in the company’s success.
Email exchanges tendered in court also showed that Day told Sebastian he would give him 10 percent ownership of Solar D, a sunscreen brand Day created.
Sebastian said he then became an informal ambassador for the brand, conducting interviews and participating in a rowing event and photoshoot among other duties.
He said he didn’t expect any payment for the work because the emails made it clear he was part-owner of the company.
Sebastian said “there were requests for intros”, and when asked about Day’s character in relation to the company, he gave “him a wrap”.
“He’s a good bloke, and I’m involved as well. There’s nothing to worry about,” he recalled saying.
The trial is expected to continue under Judge Gartelmann on Tuesday.
The funeral for Judge Peter Zahra, who presided over the trial until his sudden passing and was a highly respected and senior judge in the NSW District Court, will be held on Friday.
In a statement, Judge Zahra’s family said he would be remembered as a “special soul”.
“We have received many lovely messages and memories that demonstrate the type of person he was, he had a big heart and wanted to see everyone achieve more than what they ever thought possible,” the statement said.
“In honour of our Dad and his life, we encourage everyone to have a hot chocolate and share a dad joke in his honour!”
Image: Guy Sebastian (Facebook)