Man denies charges of exploiting vulnerable person in Trøndelag District Court

A man has denied charges of guilt in Trøndelag District Court, asserting, “I did not force her to do anything,” during his testimony on Thursday. He is charged under Norway’s Penal Code Section 295 for exploiting a vulnerable person by taking advantage of someone’s mental illness or developmental disability.

The accused reconnected with the woman, who has known him since childhood, via Snapchat shortly after his release from prison. The basis for the charges stems from a video found on the accused’s phone.

The victim currently resides in a care facility and has a moderate developmental disability. A psychologist, Tale G. Bjørgen, revealed in court that staff were concerned after the victim sent nude photographs of herself through social media. Staff discovered the victim was friends with the accused on Snapchat and, aware of his previous sexual offense convictions, contacted the authorities. The alleged misconduct occurred over a brief period last winter.

The victim provided testimony during specially arranged interviews that were played in court. She responded with short, hesitant answers and appeared uncomfortable discussing sexual topics. When asked about the accused, she described him as “kind” and stated they were friends, not in a romantic relationship. She frequently responded with discomfort regarding the content of the video in question.

The accused claimed he did not compel the victim to do anything against her will and acknowledged giving her “tips” on self-exploration but insisted she made her own choices. Experts identified the victim as having cognitive abilities equivalent to those of an 8 to 10-year-old.

Prosecutor Jarle Wikdahl argued that the accused’s extensive contact with the victim showed exploitation, noting that she might have felt obligated to comply despite the absence of explicit threats. The prosecution is seeking a two-year prison sentence and a five-year ban on the accused contacting the victim. The defense attorney requested acquittal, contending the accused did not understand the victim’s inability to comprehend the situation.