Key facts
- A prominent athlete testified in Alan Jones's assault trial, stating he continued to text Jones due to his power and past generosity.
- The athlete, complainant M, said he was "being polite" when sending friendly messages after alleged assaults.
- M testified that Jones allegedly kissed him without consent twice, in 2015 and 2020.
- Jones allegedly sent M flattering texts, including "you’re special."
- M stated he did not want to be kissed by Jones in the manner described.
- Jones, 85, faces 20 charges of indecent assault and two counts of sexual touching.
A prominent athlete, identified as complainant M, testified in the ongoing trial of broadcaster Alan Jones, stating he continued to communicate with Jones after alleged assaults due to the broadcaster's power and past generosity. Jones, 85, faces 20 charges of indecent assault and two counts of sexual touching, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
M told the Sydney court that he sent Jones friendly messages, including holiday greetings, after the alleged incidents in 2015 and 2020, explaining he was "being polite" given Jones's media presence and past kindness. The complainant described feeling uncomfortable with Jones's "incredibly overwhelmingly complimentary" texts and the alleged unwanted kisses, stating he did not consent to them. He recounted one incident in Jones's apartment where he felt prevented from moving away as Jones leaned in to kiss him, responding with "OK mate" to signal his desire for Jones to stop.
The athlete, who has known Jones for 20 years and received support through personal crises, is the third of six complainants to give evidence. He reported the alleged incidents to police in 2023, following a media investigation into similar allegations against Jones. The trial, before judge Glenn Walsh, is in its seventh week, with M giving evidence in a closed court.