A Tasmanian woman accused of participating in a sex act involving a live brown trout on a boat has appeared in court for the first time since the incident went viral online.
Catherine June Lee, 58, from the state’s south, fronted Hobart Magistrates Court on Monday.
She is facing three charges under the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Enforcement Act.
One count relates to possessing a bestiality product between February 2022 and January 2023 and two counts for making or reproducing a bestiality product during the same period.
Magistrate Marica Duvnjak granted Lee an adjournment until October, The Mercury reports.
Her co-accused, Ashley David Hallam, 55, appeared in court earlier this year in May.
He has yet to enter pleas to his charges, which include two counts of making or reproducing a bestiality product and three counts of possessing a bestiality product.
The video in question, which went viral internationally, shows a woman lying on a boat as a man allegedly uses a live trout to perform a sexual act on her.
This graphic footage sparked outrage across social media platforms, prompting police investigations and leading to serious charges against Lee and Hallam.
Authorities previously reminded the public about the legal repercussions of possessing or distributing such explicit content, highlighting it as a criminal offence.
The attention surrounding the incident has raised significant discussions about animal cruelty and the associated laws.
The video became notorious not only for its explicit content but also for the legal ramifications facing those involved.
Many online users condemned the act, calling for justice against those responsible.
Even after significant backlash, discussions around the content continued to circulate online.
During the court appearance, Lee remained composed but did not make any statements to the media waiting outside.
Public interest remains high as the case continues, leading to potential updates and developments as they arise.
Lee's legal team has been silent on the matter, leaving many questions unanswered.
The incident has sparked debates concerning the ethical treatment of animals and how society should respond to such transgressions.
Aside from the couple involved, many are now reflecting on the broader issues of consent, legality, and morality concerning animals.
There is hope among the public for stricter regulations and stiffer penalties against any form of animal abuse.
The Hobart Magistrates Court will reconvene on the matter later this year to continue assessing the allegations.
With court proceedings pending, attention is likely to remain focused on the repercussions of actions seen by many as distasteful.
The upcoming hearings may also draw more scrutiny from animal welfare groups and community organizations.
Overall, the case highlights the public’s sensitivity toward animal welfare and the societal standards around explicit acts involving creatures incapable of consent.