2 Jun 2021

Bezzant saga: Govt to check gap in laws covering online abuse

From Checkpoint, 6:15 pm on 2 June 2021

The Prime Minister says the government will take a look at a possible gap in laws protecting people from sexualised online abuse.

Her comments are in response to allegations former National Party candidate Jake Bezzant impersonated his ex-girlfriend online using naked pictures she'd sent him during their relationship.

He told RNZ there are two sides to every story, but out of respect he's not going to comment further, except to say this has to be seen in the context of a relationship break-up.

The woman spoke candidly in a public podcast - prompting questions about whether the current online abuse laws are fit for purpose.

Our political reporter Anneke Smith filed this report.