Safeguards Sought Against Blackmail (Press, 19 September 1970)
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Summary: Safeguards Sought Against Blackmail (Press, 19 September 1970)
On 19 September 1970, the New Zealand Homosexual Law Reform Society expressed concern over the issue of blackmail targeting homosexuals, highlighting the fears individuals have regarding reporting such incidents to the police. The society's chairman, Mr S. W. N. Ransom, spoke in Wellington about the negative repercussions for blackmail victims, particularly in light of a past case in Christchurch where a victim faced charges after attempting to report blackmail. Mr Ransom recounted an alarming series of robberies that occurred at knife-point, committed by a young man who had previously engaged with his male victims as a willing partner. Although this information was informally relayed to the police, no actions were taken, as the victims were too scared to press formal charges. This situation escalated to a fatal incident involving the same young man, who was subsequently convicted of murder. The chairman went on to detail a specific incident from less than four years prior, where a Christchurch man was blackmailed by his homosexual partner. When the victim bravely decided to go to the authorities, both he and the blackmailer were charged with indecent conduct, revealing a troubling lack of support for victims in similar situations. Despite the case being dismissed initially, the Crown invoked its right of appeal, leading to further legal consequences for the victim. Ransom questioned whether new instructions had been issued to prevent victim embarrassment in blackmail cases, aligning his inquiry with comments made by Sir Alfred North, the president of the Court of Appeal. He insisted that until laws are revised, ensuring protection for victims of blackmail is essential for the sake of justice. The society continues to advocate for legal reforms to address these pressing issues faced by homosexual individuals, who often remain vulnerable due to the existing legal framework and societal attitudes.
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