Brisbane nurse faces rape charges, court hears of victim’s death

Pearce was apprehended on November 5, 2025, in Riverhills and initially charged with two counts of rape related to incidents alleged to have occurred at Greenslopes Private Hospital in 2020 and 2024. Police at the time requested information from anyone who may have had similar experiences with the defendant.

He now faces a third rape charge concerning an alleged offense in 2021. The committal hearing began on Monday in the Brisbane Magistrates Court.

Prosecutor Patrick Bates indicated the hearing would continue Tuesday, acknowledging the advanced age and emotional distress of the remaining complainants. He stated, “They are deeply concerned by the court process. They’ve already jumped that hurdle by attending court today.” Pearce appeared behind a screen to protect the complainants during cross-examination.

Several colleagues of Pearce were questioned regarding events surrounding the alleged assaults at the hospital. One complainant reportedly expressed shock and difficulty in describing the alleged incident.

The court learned that a complaint against Pearce was internally investigated by the hospital in 2020. Defence barrister Kim Bryson stated, “That matter did not proceed as a police complaint at that time, that matter was investigated internally by the hospital and the matter was dismissed, or unsubstantiated. It was only in 2025, some five years later, that police made contact with [the complainant].”

The hearing has been adjourned until January, and Pearce remains on bail.