Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia's most-decorated living soldier, is refusing to be silenced by a legal system that has spent years scrutinizing his service in Afghanistan.
After being charged with five counts of murder—allegations involving the deaths of detainees between 2009 and 2012—the former SAS corporal is vowing to fight the charges and restore his reputation.
Roberts-Smith, who received the Victoria Cross for his valor, remains steadfast in his defense, stating that he has always acted within the values and rules of engagement expected of a soldier. He dismissed the recent arrest as an 'unnecessary spectacle' and a 'sensational' display by authorities.
This criminal case follows a 2023 civil defamation trial where Roberts-Smith unsuccessfully challenged media reports regarding his conduct. Despite a judge previously finding 'substantial truth' to some allegations in that civil matter, Roberts-Smith maintains his innocence, arguing that the incidents in question were lawful combat actions.
As he faces a lengthy legal battle that could span years, the decorated veteran has made one thing clear: he has never run from a fight, and he does not intend to start now.
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