Courts & Police
22 May, 2026
Charges laid against council critic
Theo Onisforou the Southern Highlands businessman and farmer who has been a vocal critic of Wingecarribee Shire Council, has been charged with three offences after been removed from Wingecarribee Shire Council earlier this year.
Theo Onisforou the Southern Highlands businessman and farmer who has been a vocal critic of Wingecarribee Shire Council, has been charged with three offences after been removed from Wingecarribee Shire Council earlier this year.
Onisforou is due to appear before Moss Vale Local Court next Tuesday on the charges, along with related apprehended violence order applications.
The AVO applications are made to protect Wingecarribee Shire Council Mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick and General Manager Lisa Miscamble.
The Southern Wire has viewed the charges, which are wilfully obstruct listed officer in exercise of functions, refuse or fail to comply with a direction under Part 14 and affix placard or paper on premises without consent.
The Southern Wire understands the allegations relate to a Wingecarribee Shire Council meeting where Onisforou was present in the public gallery.
Onisforou has been a prominent public critic of Wingecarribee Shire Council under the leadership of the mayor and general manager.
Prior to the charges being laid, Onisforou publicly announced his intention to contest the next council elections.
The court action comes during a difficult period for Wingecarribee Shire Council, which has faced increasing criticism from sections of the community and senior levels of government.
NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully recently called on residents to question the council’s “leadership” during comments on radio station 2ST and in NSW Parliament. The comments in Parliament came in response to a question from Judy Hannan, member for Wollondilly.
Under NSW law, the offence of wilfully obstructing a police officer in the exercise of their duties is a serious allegation and can carry a maximum penalty of five years in gaol.
The Southern Wire will provide full coverage from Moss Vale Local Court following Tuesday’s proceedings.
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Ahead for The Southern Wire
The Southern Wire is also preparing reports from the recent council meeting, where calls were made for the mayor and general manager to resign.
In addition, The Southern Wire is preparing an unrelated report into the alleged use of fake social media profiles by elected officials and their associates.
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