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Judge Allows Public Naming of Entertainer Charged with Sex Offences

6/7/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Judge Simon Lance denied the request to keep entertainer Cole Johnston’s name suppressed.
Entertainer Cole Johnston faces several sex charges in Auckland, making his name public.
Lawyer Sumudu Thode argued that naming Johnston would cause severe reputational and psychological harm.
Prosecutor Emma Kerr said the charges are serious and public naming serves the public interest.

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Story summary

Judge Simon Lance denied the request to keep entertainer Cole Johnston’s name suppressed.
Entertainer Cole Johnston faces several sex charges in Auckland, making his name public.
Lawyer Sumudu Thode argued that naming Johnston would cause severe reputational and psychological harm.
Prosecutor Emma Kerr said the charges are serious and public naming serves the public interest.