New Zealand Hostel Owner Sexually Assaults (And Tapes) Male Backpackers

Some disturbing news from New Zealand. A 56-year old hostel owner named Michael Harris was indicted for 39 criminal charges, including making of intimate visual recordings, aggravated wounding, possession of intimate visual recordings and indecent assault. These charges were made for his alleged sexual acts against 16 male backpackers/tourists over a span of 30 months.

image courtesy of nydailynews.com

The reports indicated that Harris is suspected of drugging these backpackers, sexually assaulting them, and filming the incident. These travelers come from all over the world and are between 18 and 25 years of age. They all stayed as guests in Harris' North Island Lodge. There could be other possible victims from his Mainstreet Lodge. Harris would also allow some of his guests to stay in the owner's residence for a longer time.

"These victims are unlikely to know that something has happened to them, although they may have suspicions,” Detective Senior Sergeant Rhys Johnson quoted in a statement. “We will deal sensitively with them and offer all appropriate support required.”

image courtesy of seriopaulino.com

Rantings:

I own a business in the tourism industry and it is of paramount importance that our guests feel comfortable and secure in the hotel of their choice. They pay good money to experience a wonderful vacation and they should not have to worry about security issues or untoward incidences. Small hotels and inns, in particular, capitalize on the homey atmosphere and specialized service that they can provide because of the nature of their establishments. These hotels attract customers who are looking for cultural immersion and excellent service. It is unacceptable for these owners to break the customer's trust. It is unbelievable that they would take advantage of people who sought their services in the first place.

In addition, crimes like these put the gay community in a bad light. The reports do not indicate Michael Harris' sexual orientation, but the fact that he has targeted male individuals would seem to point in that general direction. Situations like these support the stereotype and misconception that gay men will take advantage of innocent straight guys when given the chance. While this is a singular act of one person, unfair generalizations will be made by non-discerning individuals.

Let's all see this situation for what it is: one person allegedly commits an atrocious crime against several individuals. This is an act of an evil person, and does not reflect on an entire community of people. Hopefully, justice will prevail and the guilty party will face the consequence of his actions.