Lawrence Jones, the former founder of UK Fast, faces allegations of rape in a high-profile trial in Manchester. The incidents allegedly occurred in Salford during the early 1990s, involving two women who claim they were drugged before the assaults.

The details of the trial, taking place at Manchester Crown Court, were revealed as Jones' barrister, Eleanor Laws KC, addressed the jury. She emphasized the importance of scrutinizing the evidence diligently and reminded jurors not to make assumptions about the accused or the accusers.

In her closing speech, Ms. Laws argued that the accusations made by the two women, referred to as Woman A and Woman B, should be assessed critically. Woman A described her experience in 1993 after drinking wine and smoking with the defendant, while Woman B recounted feeling intoxicated after sniffing a substance, leading to her alleged assault.

The defense highlighted the lack of immediate reporting by the complainants, which is often seen in such cases. Ms. Laws reinforced the principle that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and it is not sufficient for jurors to presume guilt without certainty.

Ms. Laws addressed the possibility of false allegations and urged jurors to carefully evaluate the narratives shared in court. The trial is set to continue with Judge Sarah Johnston providing her summation, leading the jury towards a verdict.

The proceedings remain ongoing.