Face of the Day

> An Auckland entertainer accused of sexually abusing four underage girls is fighting to bar cameras from his trial, arguing photos of him in the dock would be “damaging”. > > Actor and musician Cole Thomas Johnston, 28, is facing more than a dozen charges for alleged offending including multiple counts of male rapes female, grooming, unlawful sexual connection and doing an indecent act. > > He has denied the allegations and is set to go to trial next year. > > His opposition to an NZME application for in-court media coverage was heard in the Auckland District Court on Friday. [...] > > [Defence counsel Matthew Creamer] submitted that Johnston was dealing with mental health issues and was “very concerned” his career would be taken away if “damaging” photos were publicised of him “sitting in a dock”. > > Johnston has performed internationally and spent years teaching child performers. [...] > > Media were already free to identify Johnston as he had lost his bid for suppression, [NZME lawyer Isabella Ieremia] said, and in-court media coverage would help ensure fair and accurate reporting. [...] > > If his suppression was not continued, [Johnston’s lawyer Sumudu Thode] argued there would be virtually “no prospect” of him recovering from the reputational damage. > > NZ Herald Read More