Man charged after allegedly offering rent-free accommodation in exchange for sex

A television investigation uncovered the alleged crime, with the prosecution thought to be the first of its kind for that type of offence.

A man has been charged over “sex for rent” allegations in the first prosecution of its kind in the UK after an investigation by television researchers for British tabloid talk show, the Jeremy Kyle show.

Christopher Cox, from Cranleigh, in Surrey in south east England, is due to appear in court next month to face two counts of inciting prostitution for gain and one count of controlling prostitution for gain.

The charges are believed to be the first to be brought in England and Wales over so-called “sex for rent” allegations, where rent-free accommodation is offered in return for sex.

A man has been charged over 'sex for rent' allegations in the first prosecution of its kind in the UK following a Jeremy Kyle investigationCredit: ITV

Cox previously featured in an episode of the Kyle Files where a producer posed as a vulnerable woman.

A dossier of evidence was handed to Surrey Police in 2019 following the ITV investigation for the Jeremy Kyle program.

Senior crown prosecutor Claire Prodger said: “Following an investigation into so-called ‘sex-for-rent’ allegations, the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) has authorised Surrey Police to charge Christopher Cox with two counts of inciting prostitution for gain and one count of controlling prostitution for gain.

“The charges arose out of an investigation by ITV researchers, passed to police in 2019, which resulted in further criminal enquiries.

“This is a complex case and we have reached the decision following a careful review of all the evidence gathered during this period.

“Criminal proceedings against this defendant are now active and he has a right to a fair trial.

“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

This story was originally published on The Sun and is reproduced here with permission