A MAN has been cleared of attempted rape and sexual touching following a four-day trial in the Royal Court.
Thomas Matthew Jackson (35) was found not guilty by a jury on Thursday, who were unanimous in their decision after around three hours of deliberation.
Mr Jackson denied two counts of sexual touching and one of attempted rape. He was accused of committing the offences after getting into bed with her.
Giving evidence on the third day of his trial, Mr Jackson said that the offences the prosecution alleged he committed were not in his nature. ‘It’s definitely something I wouldn’t do,’ he said.
Addressing Mr Jackson following the verdict, the Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, said: ‘You have been acquitted of the charges against you and you are free to leave the court.’
Turning to the jury, the Bailiff added that the trial was of a ‘very difficult and challenging nature’.
‘The court is very grateful for you doing your duty, which is immensely important for the provision of justice,’ he added.
Crown Advocate Matthew Maletroit was prosecuting during the case, with Advocate Allana Binnie defending.
