Man acquitted of rape due to sexsomnia diagnosis

SOURCE www.theguardian.com
A man diagnosed with sexsomnia was acquitted of rape after having non-consensual sex with a woman while experiencing an episode of sexsomnia. The judge emphasized that a jury should base their decision on current laws and evidence, not on personal beliefs.

Key Points

  • Man diagnosed with sexsomnia acquitted of rape
  • Judge emphasized the importance of following existing laws
  • Jury deliberated on whether the man was conscious during the act

Pros

  • Legal system upheld the principle of innocent until proven guilty
  • Increased awareness about sexsomnia as a medical condition

Cons

  • Lack of specific laws or regulations regarding sexsomnia and criminal responsibility
  • Complexity in determining whether a person was conscious or unconscious during the act