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Rutherford Offered $5K to Silence Sexual Assault Accusations

12/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In December 2025, Claire revealed Rutherford offered her $5,000 to drop sexual assault charges.
Claire described feeling "totally disgusted" by Rutherford's actions.
The assault occurred in August 2023 in Auckland.
Rutherford was arrested for attempting to pervert justice after Claire reported his letter to the police.
Rutherford pleaded guilty to the sex offense and received six months of home detention, and is appealing his conviction.

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Story summary

In December 2025, Claire revealed Rutherford offered her $5,000 to drop sexual assault charges.
Claire described feeling "totally disgusted" by Rutherford's actions.
The assault occurred in August 2023 in Auckland.
Rutherford was arrested for attempting to pervert justice after Claire reported his letter to the police.
Rutherford pleaded guilty to the sex offense and received six months of home detention, and is appealing his conviction.