Agent convicted of using sex video in blackmail

A property agent was convicted yesterday of blackmailing his business partner for money and sexual favours by threatening to release a video of them having intercourse.

Judge Wayne Wilson convicted the 38-year-old man of blackmailing his 28-year-old former lover in August 1996. The defendant had denied two charges of blackmail and five of procurement of sexual acts through threats. He was acquitted of one blackmail charge and five sex charges.

The woman had allowed the defendant to film their lovemaking, the District Court heard.

The court was told the defendant had made unwarranted demands to the woman by posting nude photographs of her to her office.

He was entitled to ask for money and sex but was not entitled to use the video for blackmail, the judge said.

It had been alleged the woman was forced to have sex with the defendant five times to prevent him distributing the tapes. The judge adjourned sentencing until April 14, pending reports.