The Allegations Against Slowthai
Grammy-nominated rapper Slowthai, also known as Tyron Frampton, is facing serious allegations of rape and sexual assault. The court has been told that after one of his gigs at The Bullingdon in Oxford in September 2021, Slowthai and his friend, Alex Blake-Walker, allegedly raped two women. Both men deny the charges, which include three joint counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
Events Leading to the Alleged Assault
- Before the show, Slowthai and his entourage met a group of women and provided some of them with tickets for the performance.
- After the gig, the women and the men reconvened on Slowthai’s tour bus.
- The group then went to one of the women’s properties, where Slowthai set rules of “No phones and no boys.”
- The prosecution claims that the men’s intention was solely for sexual gratification, regardless of the women’s consent.
The Alleged Assault
The prosecution alleges that once at the house, two women were isolated from their friends by Slowthai and Blake-Walker. The men then proceeded to rape and sexually assault the women while reportedly joking and high-fiving each other. The assault only ended when the women’s friends intervened and stopped the men.
‘Willingly Consenting’ Defense
Slowthai’s defense attorney, Patrick Gibbs KC, argued that the women willingly consented to the acts and that the case revolves around the difference between consenting in the moment and regretting it later. He also emphasized the influence of celebrity on people’s behavior and reactions.
Sheryl Nwosu, defending Blake-Walker, maintained that her client denies forcing anyone to engage in sexual activities.
Legal Proceedings and Impact on Slowthai’s Career
Slowthai’s legal battle has already had repercussions on his career. He was removed from the line-up of the Glastonbury Festival, as well as Reading and Leeds, after being charged in 2023. Despite being a Grammy-nominated artist, Slowthai’s future in the music industry remains uncertain as the trial continues.
Conclusion
The allegations against Slowthai and Blake-Walker are serious and have raised significant concerns. The outcome of the trial will not only determine the legal consequences for the accused but also have lasting implications on their careers and public perception.
FAQs
1. What are Slowthai and his friend accused of?
Slowthai and his friend are accused of raping two women and committing sexual assault following one of Slowthai’s performances.
2. How has Slowthai’s career been affected by the allegations?
Slowthai has already been removed from major music festival line-ups due to the charges against him, impacting his career significantly.