An ex-Olympian from Australia has admitted to harassing his ex-partner in Melbourne last year.
Gary Neiwand, 56, entered a guilty plea to using a carriage service to threaten, harass, or cause offense when he appeared before the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court today.
The victim received dozens of calls, emails, and messages from social media accounts from Neiwand over the course of two days in July, according to testimony given in court.
The defense informed the court that Neiwand made contact because, after breaking up with the woman because he had started dating someone else, he was concerned for the victim’s mental health.
His unnamed victim told 9News that the three days were “absolute hell.”
“It’s not fair,” the victim said.
“I knew he had a past, but I thought the better of it. I thought he was a changed man and it wouldn’t happen to me.”
The 56-year-old, who competed in track cycling four times at the Olympics, took home medals in three of his four appearances.
He also captured three gold medals at the Commonwealth Games.
Neiwand previously received an 18-month term for stalking four individuals, including an ex-girlfriend, in 2006. Additionally, he has in the past disobeyed a court order.
Six years later, after admitting to flashing two ladies, he was found guilty and handed a two-year good behavior bond. He was then released from prison.
The father of two, who resides with his parents and enjoys good ties with his children, testified in court.
The former Olympian was also charged with stalking, but the case was later dismissed.
In September, Neiwand will appear once more for sentencing.
