A pre-trial ruling was made that the complainant was not to be cross-examined on her sexual experiences or perceived sexual interest in others. Two hours later, the jury submitted three further questions that brought the trial to a sudden halt. Crown lawyer Jeremy Cameron applied for a mistrial, submitting the questions indicated the jury was engaging in impermissible reasoning. Judge Hastings agreed the jury was “entrenched” in misconceptions that could not be corrected with a simple reminder. You are discharged.”A new trial began the following week, where a new jury found the defendant guilty of sexual violation.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 16, 2026 19:03 UTC