Ronald Thompson, a 67-year-old man accused of multiple sex offenses, has traveled to Brisbane, Australia. Last week, it was revealed that his trial was stopped due to his poor health, which outraged his alleged victims. Thompson denies all accusations. His family claims he is receiving palliative care and went to Australia to spend his final months peacefully.
Thompson left New Zealand in March, four months after his trial was halted in Blenheim District Court. It was initially unclear where he had gone, but sources confirmed he is now in Brisbane. It is not known if he is still there. The Australian Border Force did not comment on Thompson’s case but stressed their commitment to protecting the community from criminals.
New Zealand police have not confirmed any communication with Australian authorities about Thompson, but they do routinely share information with foreign police agencies.
One of Thompson’s alleged victims, who was 15 when he was accused of violating her in 2002, described his travel as “insulting.” She worries he may harm others in Australia, stating, “My concern is… he might do the same thing.” She noted that Thompson had made young women uncomfortable as recently as 2019.
Judge Tony Zohrab halted Thompson’s trial, stating his health issues prevented a fair trial. Doctors had reported that Thompson suffers from advanced cardiovascular disease, leading to concerns for his health under stress.
Another alleged victim, a young man who claimed Thompson raped him at 15, was praised for his bravery. This victim feels Thompson’s travel is a “slap in the face” to all victims. Thompson faced 18 charges of sexual offending against six people from 1981 to 2002, involving indecent assault and rape.
Thompson was known for his TV ads in Christchurch in the 1990s. Since news of his charges emerged, police received reports from six more individuals concerned about his behavior, with some making historical complaints about him. Detective Sergeant Olivia Meares, leading the investigation, confirmed that they are taking these concerns seriously.
