A former swimming team physiotherapist is set to stand trial after being accused of sexually assaulting an Olympic athlete. Peter John Wells is also accused of maintaining illegal relationships with a swimmer during their childhood.
He will now face six charges in the District Court after stating that he maintained his innocence when asked if he wished to respond to the allegations. 'I plead not guilty, Your Honour,' the 55-year-old said.
The sexual abuse charge relates to an alleged incident with a former Olympic medallist. He also faces five charges of unlawful relationships with a child under 16. One of the five accusations pertains to a relationship with another former Olympic medallist.
Mr Wells had previously faced three additional charges of sexual assault involving two alleged victims, one of whom was another former Olympian, but those charges were dropped by the prosecution.
Mr Wells has held senior roles across Australian swimming and elite sport for more than two decades. After the charges surfaced, the Office of the Health Ombudsman took immediate action to impose strict conditions on his registration. He is currently barred from treating anyone under 18 or any female patients and must only practise at approved locations.
Following his plea of not guilty, the matter will now proceed to the District Court.
