Home / Crime and Justice / Media Mogul Charged With Assault, Steps Down
Media Mogul Charged With Assault, Steps Down
14 Mar
Summary
- Antony Catalano faces assault, false imprisonment, and threats to kill charges.
- He allegedly dragged a woman and swung an iron at her head.
- Catalano has stepped down and will enter a rehabilitation program.
Antony Catalano, co-owner and chairman of Australian Community Media (ACM), has stepped down from his positions and is taking a six-month leave from business commitments. This decision follows his charge with assault, false imprisonment, and making threats to kill. The allegations suggest he dragged a woman through her Melbourne unit and swung a clothes iron at her head.
Catalano, 59, appeared in court via video link and was granted bail despite police objections. His bail conditions include surrendering his passport, reporting to police, avoiding contact with the alleged victim, and adhering to a curfew. The alleged victim reportedly sustained a fractured coccyx.
In a public statement, Catalano expressed deep shame and humiliation, stating he would enter a rehabilitation program to address ongoing mental health and substance abuse issues. He regretted not seeking professional help sooner, as urged by family and friends.
ACM managing director Tony Kendall informed staff that Catalano is on immediate leave while the legal matter proceeds, emphasizing the company's commitment to its values. Catalano previously resigned as CEO of Domain in 2018 and co-purchased ACM in 2019 for $115 million. He is scheduled to reappear in court on May 11.
