Former NSW MP Rory Amon Tells Court Teen Claimed He Was 17 Before Alleged Abuse
A former New South Wales Liberal MP has told a court that a 13-year-old boy allegedly told him he was 17 before any sexual activity occurred, as he began giving evidence in his criminal trial.
Rory Amon has pleaded not guilty to 10 charges relating to various alleged sexual acts. The case is now being heard in court, where Amon has started presenting his version of events.
The Charges Against Rory Amon
Amon, who previously represented the state seat of Pittwater for the Liberal Party, faces 10 charges connected to alleged sexual offences involving a teenage boy.
Prosecutors allege that the incidents occurred when the complainant was 13 years old.
Amon has denied all charges.
The trial is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged interactions, including communication between the two and whether the accused was aware of the boy’s true age.
What Amon Told the Court
Giving evidence in his defence, Amon told the court that the boy had said he was 17 years old at the time of their interactions.
His legal team argues that he believed the teenager was older than 16, the age of consent in New South Wales, and therefore did not knowingly engage in unlawful conduct.
The prosecution, however, maintains that the complainant was 13 and that the alleged acts were illegal regardless of any claimed misunderstanding.
The court will ultimately determine whether Amon’s account is credible and whether the prosecution has proven the charges beyond reasonable doubt.
Legal Context
Under New South Wales law, the age of consent is 16. Sexual activity involving someone under that age can constitute a criminal offence, with more serious penalties applying when the complainant is significantly younger.
In cases where the accused claims a mistaken belief about age, courts assess whether that belief was reasonable in the circumstances.
Key factors may include:
- Evidence of conversations about age
- Online communications
- Physical meetings
- Steps taken to verify identity
These elements are likely to be central to the jury’s consideration.
Political Background
Rory Amon was elected as a Liberal MP in 2019 and resigned from parliament after being charged.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to his former political position and the seriousness of the allegations.
High-profile cases involving public figures often intensify scrutiny on both legal proceedings and broader issues of accountability.
What Happens Next?
The trial is ongoing.
After Amon’s evidence concludes, both the prosecution and defence will present closing arguments before the matter is handed to the jury for deliberation.
The jury will decide whether the prosecution has proven each of the 10 charges beyond reasonable doubt.
Until a verdict is reached, Amon remains presumed innocent under Australian law.
Final Thoughts
The case against former NSW MP Rory Amon centers on a crucial dispute over age and knowledge — whether he reasonably believed the boy was 17, as he claims, or whether the evidence supports the prosecution’s case.
As the trial continues, the court will weigh testimony, evidence, and legal arguments before delivering a verdict in a case that has attracted statewide attention.
