Feb 20 • 03:00 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

'Consent of a child is not a defence': Ex-MP's sexual assault trial begins

The trial of former Liberal MP Rory Amon has commenced, involving serious allegations of sexual assault against a minor.

Rory Amon, a former Liberal MP from Australia, is currently on trial facing multiple charges related to the sexual assault of a 13-year-old boy. The complainant detailed their interactions, which began on a dating app, leading to alleged assaults occurring in a parking garage of a Sydney apartment complex eight years prior. The trial highlights critical legal themes, particularly around the understanding of consent concerning minors, as Amon maintains his innocence against the charges brought forth.

During the court proceedings, the complainant recounted how he initially contacted Amon through a gay dating app, which is a stark component of how their encounters began. Following his resignation from the political office in August 2024, Amon's case has drawn significant media attention and public scrutiny, reflecting broader societal concerns about the safety and exploitation of minors in online spaces. The nature of the charges against Amon includes serious allegations, such as indecent assault of a person under 16 and unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, emphasizing the severity of the allegations.

As the trial progresses, with Amon having entered a not guilty plea to all ten charges, the courtroom proceedings focus on the evidence presented and the testimonies shared. The outcomes of the trial may not only influence Amon's judicial future but could also impact public dialogue on legal frameworks surrounding child consent and the responsibilities of adults in protecting minors, especially in digital environments, setting a precedent for future cases of similar nature.

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