Judge Urges Caution Over Evidence Given by Barron Trump in Assault Trial

A judge has instructed jurors to treat evidence from Barron Trump with caution during a criminal trial involving allegations of assault and rape.

The 19-year-old, the youngest son of former US President Donald Trump, contacted UK police from the United States after witnessing part of an alleged attack on a friend via a video call.

Judge’s Warning to Jury

Mr Justice Bennathan KC told Snaresbrook Crown Court that Trump’s account could be mistaken or influenced by his friendship with the complainant.

He noted that Trump had not given evidence under oath and had not been cross-examined, meaning his statement should not form the main basis for any conviction.

Charges Faced by the Defendant

Matvei Rumiantsev, 22, denies charges including assault, actual bodily harm, two counts of rape, intentional strangulation and perverting the course of justice.

The court heard that the alleged incident occurred after the pair had been drinking together in January 2025.

Emergency Call From the US

Trump contacted police shortly after the alleged incident, reporting that his friend was being attacked during a video call.

In a later email to officers, he said his view of the incident had been brief and confirmed that he did not possess any physical evidence.

Defence and Prosecution Arguments

Defence lawyers described the complainant as unreliable, while prosecutors urged jurors to consider the urgency and concern in Trump’s call to police.

Rumiantsev told the court the sexual encounter was consensual and said he acted in self-defence during a confrontation.

Ongoing Trial

The judge reminded jurors to assess all evidence carefully and fairly.

The trial is continuing.