The prosecutor in Jarryd Haynes’ sexual assault trial has urged juries not to be swayed by the former NRL star’s fame and status.
Hayne was back in Newcastle District Court today when final arguments were made in his rape trial.
He is charged with sexually assaulting a 26-year-old woman at her mother’s home in Fletcher on the 2018 NRL Grand Final night.
In his final argument, prosecutor Brian Costello spoke about the character of the young woman and described her as an open and honest witness.
“She admitted that sex could have happened under the right circumstances,” he said.
“The taxi that was waiting outside with the meter clicking was hardly the right thing to do.”
In concluding statements, the Crown praised Haynes fame and success, but urged the jury not to let this influence their decision.
“Jarryd Hayne has achieved a level of fame and success beyond what most of us will achieve,” said Costello.
In closing remarks, defense attorney Phillip Boulten SC said Hayne did not sexually assault the alleged victim.
“Jarryd Hayne didn’t commit these crimes, he didn’t ignore protests to stop … he didn’t sexually assault her,” he said.
Citing the couple’s suggestive interactions on social media, the defense argued that Hayne had “good reason” to believe the young woman “would deal with him.”
Mr Boulten said chanting to an Ed Sheeran song on the night of the alleged attack was something to “break the ice”.
“He went to his favorite songs, he was nice … This is not the act of a person who is passionate about sex.”
The defense asked the jury to use their own life experiences when examining the evidence.
Closing remarks will end tomorrow before the jury retires to ponder their verdict.
