Man not guilty of climbing into woman's bed and attempting to rape her

Thursday 16 February 2023

A 35-year-old man has been acquitted of climbing into a woman's bed and attempting to rape her.

Thomas Matthew Jackson had been charged with two counts of sexual touching and one of attempted rape - the jury were unanimous in finding him not guilty on all counts.

The Court heard during the course of the trial that the woman, her partner and Mr Jackson had been drinking heavily on the night of the alleged attack.

During cross-examination by Crown Advocate Matthew Maletroit, prosecuting, on the second day of the trial, Mr Jackson said he had "no reason" to go into the woman's bedroom. He claimed that the woman was "confused" about what had happened.

The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, was presiding. 

"You have been acquitted of the charges against you and you are free to leave the court," he told Mr Jackson after the verdict.
Turning to the jury, who had spent around three hours deliberating, 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 said.

Advocate Allana Binnie was defending during the trial.

More from the case...

Woman said alleged rape attempt left her with "flashbacks"

"She was a wreck, she was hysterical"

Attempted rape accused says alleged victim “confused”