Former NSW MP Rory Amon Faces Trial for Alleged Sexual Abuse

Rory Amon, a former Liberal MP in New South Wales, is currently on trial facing ten charges related to alleged sexual acts with a 13-year-old boy in 2017. Amon, 36, has pleaded not guilty and claims that the boy misrepresented his age, stating that he was 17 during their interactions. The court heard that Amon and the teenager communicated through Grindr and Snapchat, exchanging explicit photos prior to their meetings. Amon testified, “The question of age was asked … I do recall he said he was 17,” asserting that he would have ceased communication had he known the boy was underage.

The Guardian

The complainant, now 22, previously testified that he informed Amon he was only 15 at the time. Amon's defense attorney, Matthew Johnston SC, questioned whether any of the exchanged images or messages indicated the boy's true age, to which Amon responded negatively. He expressed feelings of guilt and shame regarding his use of Grindr, stating, “I was not out sexually until, I guess, now,” reflecting on his struggles with his sexuality during that period.

The Guardian

The alleged encounters between Amon and the complainant reportedly took place in a communal bathroom connected to the car park of the boy's residence. The prosecutor detailed that during the first meeting, Amon led the boy into the bathroom, where he allegedly placed the boy's hand on his genitals and directed him to engage in sexual intercourse. On a second occasion, which Amon denies, the prosecutor claimed that sexual assaults occurred while they were standing and later lying on a towel brought by Amon.

The Guardian

The complainant disclosed the incidents to various individuals, including his teacher, psychiatrist, parents, and friends, shortly after they occurred in 2017. Amon is expected to continue his testimony in court on Monday.

The Guardian

The case has drawn significant public attention, with critics highlighting the serious nature of the allegations against a former elected official. Advocacy groups have called for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the case, emphasizing the importance of protecting minors from sexual exploitation.

The Guardian

The New South Wales legal system is handling the case with the utmost seriousness, as indicated by the ongoing trial proceedings. Amon's defense maintains that he was misled about the boy's age, while the prosecution is focused on establishing the facts of the alleged abuse.

The Guardian

• “The question of age was asked … I do recall he said he was 17,” — Rory Amon, Former MP

The Guardian

• “No … I would have ceased communication,” — Rory Amon, Former MP

The Guardian

• “I was not out sexually until, I guess, now,” — Rory Amon, Former MP

The Guardian

The trial continues to unfold, with further testimonies expected to clarify the events surrounding the allegations against Amon.

The Guardian