Jury dismissed in rape and blackmail trial

Jurors at Lewes Crown Court have been dismissed

A jury in the trial of a man accused of rape and blackmail has been discharged and a new trial ordered.

Michael Fry, 44, of no fixed abode, denies two counts of rape and charges of administering a substance with intent, causing the alleged victim to engage in penetrative sexual activity, voyeurism and blackmail.

He allegedly filmed himself as he raped a married man in Brighton and threatened to sell the footage online.

Fry pleaded guilty to assaulting the man.

After the jury at Lewes Crown Court was discharged, a new trial was scheduled for 2026.