A criminal trial in the Christchurch District Court is hearing allegations about an attempt to blackmail a Canterbury public figure following a sexual encounter arranged on Grindr.
Both parties have been granted anonymity.
The prosecution detailed a disagreement over payment led the defendant to demand $200 per hour, while the complainant offered $100 after the encounter.
The situation escalated when the defendant placed a sign at the complainant’s residence, threatening to label the encounter as sexual assault if not compensated.
The complainant subsequently paid $250.
According to a report by State media outlet RNZ, the accused said he was feeling unhappy with the encounter, and felt he had two options: either go public, or go on a overseas trip ‘to take his mind off his troubles.’ He said could not afford the option of a holiday.
Defense Counsel argued that the issue revolved around consent and the complainant’s acknowledgment of wrongdoing, suggesting the defendant’s actions were not blackmail but a request for an apology and recognition of mistreatment. The trial continues.
Taxpayers: 😐
What else is going on ‘behind the scenes’ in dear ol’ Canty?
Just the “straights” left in the closet now.