Merivale VIP Matthew Palavidis has had charges of sexual touching without consent dismissed but was convicted of common assault after allegedly trying to undo a waitress’s top at Mimi’s in Coogee.
The 64-year-old acoustic engineer, known as a “whale” for his lavish spending, will appeal.
“He maintains his innocence,” said lawyer Paul McGirr. “The most serious charge has been rightfully dismissed, and in relation to the common assault, we don’t accept that either.”
CCTV footage was inconclusive, while three of Palavidis’ companions told the Waverley Local Court they did not see him touch the waitress.
Venue manager Jonathan Robinson said she later reported feeling “violated,” claiming Palavidis pulled on her blouse to expose her breasts and called it “his present.”
The waitress is the first Merivale staff member to take a VIP guest to court.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald.
