Ben Roberts-Smith released from prison on bail after being charged with five counts of war crime murder

Former SAS corporal granted bail ahead of potential trial on charges relating to alleged killing of civilians in Afghanistan Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Ben Roberts-Smith has been granted bail under strict conditions while he awaits a potential trial on alleged war crimes. The Victoria Cross recipient, once Australia’s most lionised soldier, faces five charges of war crime murder over allegations he killed unarmed civilians during his service with the Australian SAS in Afghanistan. Each charge carries a potential life sentence in prison. Roberts-Smith has not yet entered a plea but has always strenuously denied any wrongdoing. In Sydney’s Downing Centre local court on Friday, Judge Greg Grogin said the risk Roberts-Smith would flee Australia to avoid court, or that he would interfere with witnesses or evidence, could be mitigated by strict reporting requirements. Roberts-Smith was released from Silverwater prison on bail on Friday under a requirement that he report to a police station three times a week. He must only use a single phone and computer, to which police will have access. The court dem