Former Darwin councillor avoids jail for domestic violence offenses

A prominent Australian photographer and former Darwin councillor, Paul Arnold, has received a two-year intensive community corrections order, including nine months of home detention, after being convicted of serious domestic violence charges. The Darwin Local Court heard that Arnold, 54, was found guilty of over a dozen charges, including assault, deprivation of liberty, and property damage. These offenses occurred during his 18-month relationship with his former partner, Leanne Thompson, before their separation in early 2023.

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Judge Therese Austin characterized Arnold's conduct as "insidious," "controlling," and "nasty," emphasizing the "profound" physical, psychological, and emotional harm inflicted on the victim. She stated, "I find there is no remorse at all for the harm you have inflicted on Ms Thompson." Arnold had pleaded guilty to two counts of property damage but denied other charges, with the judge finding parts of his evidence "implausible, unbelievable, and uncredible."

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Arnold, who served as a City of Darwin councillor for three years and previously owned a Darwin CBD gallery, had his defense argue that negative media coverage had led to "extra punishment." While acknowledging Arnold had faced "public humiliation," Judge Austin noted it was "to be expected" given his community standing. She also accepted that Arnold was "labouring under severe depression," which would make any prison sentence "more onerous." Despite avoiding actual jail time, the judge stressed that the community corrections order is a "strict regime."

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