Prominent Perth doctor accused of assaulting wife
One of Perth's top doctors has lost a bid to keep his identity secret, amid shock domestic violence claims levelled by his high-profile wife.
Dr Anthony Bell, the medical director of St John of God Hospital in Midland, is charged with one count of aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm over an alleged violent incident in April.
His estranged wife, human rights lawyer Rabia Siddique, was in court today as a magistrate lifted an order preventing reporting of the case.
Dr Anthony Bell, the Medical Director of St John of God Hospital in Midland, is charged with one count of aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm over an alleged violent incident in April. 9News
Siddique rose to prominence when she successfully sued the British Army for discrimination after it failed to acknowledge her role in rescuing two SAS soldiers from war-torn Iraq.
In court documents, Bell called the assault allegations "baseless", claiming Siddique had "shown a desire to ruin his life" since their separation.
The veteran emergency physician also claimed his employer wouldn't allow him to keep treating patients if the case went public, putting extra strain on WA's struggling health system.
St John of God Hospital has since confirmed Bell has taken a leave of absence until the matter is finalised.
A trial date is expected to be set next month.
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