Victorian Labor MP Will Fowles has apologised unreservedly for an incident that occurred at the Abode Hotel in Canberra on Thursday morning.
So here’s the latest. A politician (I don’t know who) has gone into a rage after discovering he couldn’t access his luggage. Police say he’s now calmed down but is facing charges. pic.twitter.com/VRKu5p2s2t
— Kellie Sloane MP – Member for Vaucluse (@kelliesloane) July 24, 2019
Reports trickled in on social media on Wednesday that alleged Fowles destroyed a door in the Canberra hotel while claiming his luggage was being “illegally held.” The Member for Burwood was reportedly questioned by Victoria Police after the incident.
“What happened is unacceptable,” said Fowles on Wednesday afternoon. “I am deeply ashamed of my action.”
Fowles said that while there were no excuses for his actions, there were mitigating circumstances.
“I have, for a long time, been dealing with addiction and other mental health issues,” he said.
“Medication I take was in my luggage, which was locked in a room that I was not able to access, as no staff were on-site.”
Fowles said he had recently undertaken a course for drug and alcohol counselling and that he would pay for all damages.
“I have let myself down and badly let down those who have supported me.
I know how hard I have to work to rebuild the trust people have placed in me.”
Fowles will take a leave of absence to “properly deal” with his health issues.
