A 28-year-old man, Josh Baxter, has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter after a fatal incident involving Michael Barron, 38, which reportedly occurred during a consensual but dangerous sexual encounter arranged via Grindr. The case is currently ongoing at Minshull Street Crown Court.
The court learned that the men connected through Grindr in January last year. After exchanging messages about their mutual interest in extreme sexual practices, including choking, tying up, and role-play, they agreed to meet at Baxter’s flat. Evidence presented shows Baxter encouraging Barron to consume alcohol until he was nearly unconscious.
During the encounter, Baxter is alleged to have restrained Barron face-down on a bed for an extended period, applying forceful strangulation that fractured Barron’s neck bones and cartilage. Barron suffered cerebral hypoxia—oxygen deprivation to the brain—which subsequently led to cardiac arrest and his untimely death.
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Following the incident, prosecutors revealed that Baxter conducted online searches about the consequences of accidental death during choking in sexual activities. He also continued messaging other men and ordered food before eventually calling emergency services. Prosecutors argue that Baxter displayed indifference to Barron’s wellbeing.
In court, Anna Whyte KC detailed the explicit nature of Baxter’s sexual preferences, highlighting his admission of seeking “rough” and “high-risk” encounters involving choking, tying, and intoxication leading to helplessness. Both men communicated and consented to these activities via messages before meeting.
The prosecution contends that while Barron consented to certain acts, Baxter’s awareness of the substantial risk of serious harm or death means that consent is not a defense. They argue that Baxter recklessly proceeded, knowing the potential dangers associated with such extreme activities.
During the trial, prosecutors highlighted evidence including phone records showing attempts to acquire drugs, the use of a makeshift mask during the encounter, and Baxter’s searches relating to physical distress signs and legal consequences post-incident.
Ultimately, the prosecution asserts that Barron’s death was preventable and was the direct result of Baxter’s reckless pursuit of sexual gratification. Baxter, who remains silent during police interviews, denies all charges of manslaughter, intentional strangulation, and grievous bodily harm. The trial is expected to continue for up to two weeks.