A prominent Sydney barrister has died, taking his own life weeks after Australian Federal Police allegedly found child abuse material on his phone as he returned from a trip to South-East Asia, where he runs a charity for disadvantaged youngsters.
Mark Dennis, SC, was found dead on Monday evening at his inner west home by NSW Police.
The barrister, who had just resigned from Forbes chambers, appeared in court just two weeks ago from the police cells.
Dennis had been arrested after returning to Sydney on a flight from Cambodia in late January, the Herald first revealed.
Officers from the AFP and Australian Border Force searched Dennis’ luggage and allegedly found child abuse material on his phone and devices linked to a cloud storage account.
“During an examination of the man’s mobile phone, ABF officers located suspected child abuse material. The matter was reported to the AFP for further investigation,” a statement from the agencies reads.
Dennis was charged with possessing, distributing and importing child abuse material.
His own barrister, Michael Burke, told the court Dennis would immediately wrap his practice upon release on bail.
The 56-year-old lived alone in Leichhardt but was well known among the legal fraternity for his extensive writing and mentoring of young barristers.
He co-founded Reasonable Cause in 2020 to help disadvantaged young people with scholarships and literacy in the impoverished Cambodian regions. He visits the country twice every year, according to an online profile.
Sydney lawyers often attend Reasonable Cause events to hear from other prominent speakers including magistrates, judges and lawmakers.
The AFP investigation has not concluded, however, sources say. Officers will continue into Dennis’ activities overseas to see if any children remain at risk through his charity or connections.
More to come.
Anyone needing support can contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028, Lifeline 13 11 14, and Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.
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