Former NSW MP Rory Amon claims in court that he believed a 13-year-old boy he allegedly abused was actually 17, denying knowledge of the boy's true age during their interactions.
Rory Amon, a former member of the New South Wales Parliament, is currently on trial for multiple charges related to alleged sexual encounters with a 13-year-old boy. During the proceedings, Amon testified that he believed the boy was 17, citing a conversation where the boy allegedly stated his age. This defense is critical, as it addresses the issue of consent and knowledge of the boy's actual age, which is central to the charges against Amon.
The court heard details indicating that Amon had communicated with the boy through dating apps like Grindr and Snapchat, where they exchanged explicit messages and photos. Amon has pleaded not guilty to the ten charges leveled against him and has asserted that he did not know the boy's true age. The boy’s previous testimony claimed he had informed Amon of his younger age, creating a conflict that the jury must navigate as they consider the evidence.
As the trial unfolds, the implications of Amon's case resonate beyond the courtroom, raising significant questions about the responsibilities of adults when interacting with minors online. The outcome may influence public discourse on consent laws and the protections afforded to minors in digital spaces, as well as the impact of leadership roles in such allegations.
