Consensual

Controversy Erupts Over Teacher’s Arrest for Alleged Consensual Relationship with Student in South Carolina

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Bluffton, South Carolina—A teacher is facing serious consequences after being accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a student. Victoria Katherine Montgomery, 32, was arrested on charges of sexual battery of a student, related to her alleged involvement with an 18-year-old at Hilton Head Island High School. Following her arrest, the South Carolina State Board of Education suspended her teaching certification and placed her on administrative leave. Montgomery, who previously supervised the arts department and launched a dance program at the school, is accused of violating South Carolina law regarding sexual conduct with students. … Read more

Shannon Sharpe Steps Back from ESPN Amid Civil Lawsuit Allegations, Asserts Consensual Relationship

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WASHINGTON — Shannon Sharpe, a former NFL star and current ESPN broadcaster, announced his decision to temporarily step down from his role at the sports network following allegations of rape detailed in a civil lawsuit. Sharpe made the announcement on Thursday, asserting his belief that the accusations are unfounded and stressing that the related romantic relationship was consensual. According to the lawsuit, filed in Clark County, Nevada, the plaintiff, identified only as Jane Doe, accuses Sharpe of raping her twice; once in October 2024 and again in January. The suit seeks damages of $50 million. … Read more

Worcestershire Councillor Claims Consensual Encounter After Funeral, Denies Rape Charges in Court

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Coventry, England – During a trial at Coventry Crown Court, Mike Rouse, a Worcestershire County Council member, faced serious allegations involving the rape and sexual assault of a woman. These charges stemmed from an incident that reportedly occurred in February 2023, after a gathering marking his brother’s funeral. Rouse, who represents Redditch South, has steadfastly denied the accusations, asserting that the sexual encounter was consensual. The court heard how the alleged assault took place in an upstairs bedroom of a home where individuals had congregated following the funeral. Subsequent rumors during the trial suggested that … Read more

Inside Perspective: The Unintended Consequences of Anti-Trafficking Legislation on Consensual Sex Work

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In a sweeping change that has redefined online expressions of sexuality, the U.S. government’s implementation of a new law aimed at curbing sex trafficking has unintentionally escalated risks for consensual sex workers. Enacted in 2018, the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) and the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) were intended to serve as powerful deterrents against illicit sexual exploitation. However, for many working in the sex industry by choice, these laws have complicated their ability to operate safely. Originally, platforms such as Craigslist and Backpage provided a way … Read more