As reported by ABC News, The Canberra Times and Nine News, Baptist Pastor Alofa Talouli Masina, 54, was found not guilty of one count of rape and three counts of acts of indecency because of an inaccuracy in the date of the offences. 

The judge said he found the woman, and the three other woman who also testified against Masina, were “credible” and that the charges were proven beyond reasonable doubt, but that they could not have occurred on or around the date listed on the indictment, so he had no choice but to return a not guilty verdict. 

Just in case you were ever wondering whether “not guilty” is the same as “innocent”, particularly in rape cases, where only a minuscule amount (less than 3% of reported rapes)result in a guilty verdict. 

(as usual, if you’re reading this on social media, all links are in the OP on janegilmore.com)

FixedIt is an ongoing project to push back against the media’s constant erasure of violent men and blaming of innocent victims. If you would like to help fund it – even $5 a month makes a big difference – please consider becoming a Patron

If you would like to know more about how and why the media’s erasure of men’s violence against women occurs, the Fixed It book is out now! Buy your copy here or at any good bookstore. Extracts available on why Fixed It started inThe Guardian, rape and other violence myths in The Age/Sydney Morning Herald and the Good Guy trope on my website.

1800 RESPECT
Sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling and support.24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 
Ph: 1800 737 732
www.1800respect.org.au 

Djirra – Aboriginal Family Violence Response & Support Service
9am – 9pm, Monday to Friday
Ph: 1800 105 303
djirra.org.au 

Suicide Call Back Service
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Ph: 1300 659 467
www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Kids Helpline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Phone: 1800 55 1800
www.kidshelp.com.au

MensLine Australia
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Phone: 1300 78 99 78
www.mensline.org.au

Books by Jane Gilmore

Fairy Tale Princesses Will Kill Your Children

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