A man standing trial for the death of his Grindr date has told a court that their graphic online conversations about choking were merely 'fantasy' and 'role play'. The case centres on the death of 38-year-old Michael Barron after he met 28-year-old Josh Baxter for sex in Manchester.
The Fatal Encounter in North Manchester
Michael Barron travelled to Josh Baxter's flat in north Manchester on 26 January last year after the pair connected on the dating app Grindr. Their initial contact on the app moved to WhatsApp, where jurors at Minshull Street Crown Court have heard explicit messages were exchanged. Later that same day, Mr Barron was found dead at the property.
The court heard that Mr Barron's cause of death was cerebral hypoxia, a severe lack of oxygen to the brain, which led to cardiac arrest. Prosecutors allege that Mr Baxter strangled and choked Mr Barron with such significant force that it fractured a bone and cartilage in his neck.
'Fantasy' and 'Role Play' Defence
Josh Baxter has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter. Under questioning from his barrister, Louise Sweet KC, he described the nature of the messages shared with Mr Barron prior to their meeting. He insisted the discussions were part of a consensual fantasy and did not reflect an intent to cause harm.
This defence forms a crucial part of the trial, as the prosecution must prove that Mr Baxter's actions were unlawful and directly led to Mr Barron's death, moving beyond any alleged pre-agreed 'role play'.
Ongoing Trial at Minshull Street Crown Court
The trial continues to unfold, with the jury tasked with determining the facts between an alleged fatal violent act and a defence of accidental death during sexual activity that involved agreed-upon role play. The case highlights complex issues surrounding consent, communication, and risk in connections made through dating apps.
All parties await the conclusion of the evidence and the jury's subsequent verdict on the charge of manslaughter.
