Celebrity auctioneer Charles Hanson, known for his role on Bargain Hunt, is facing serious allegations, and in his trial, WhatsApp messages have become a focal point.
Prosecutor Stephen Kemp presented these messages as a “set of confessions” that give a clear insight into the troubled dynamics of Hanson’s relationship with his wife, Rebecca Hanson.
The court heard how the couple’s communication—especially messages from Charles—appears to admit behavior that is at the heart of the charges against him.
Messages That Paint a Disturbing Picture
In his closing speech, Kemp emphasized how the messages exchanged between the couple suggested a toxic relationship.
In one, Charles promised never again to “lay a finger” on Rebecca, a statement which Kemp argues paints a picture of ongoing abusive behavior.
The prosecutor described how Hanson’s messages indicated that he was aware of his anger issues, even offering to attend anger management courses to change his behavior.
Charles Hanson, who runs an auction house in Etwall, Derbyshire, had previously described himself as being “almost a slave” to his wife, accusing her of controlling him.
He claimed that he would often “tap out” every word Rebecca wanted to hear.
However, Kemp dismissed this narrative, calling it far-fetched and suggesting that it stretched the truth beyond belief.
Defensive Arguments and Contradictions
On the other side, Charles’ defense team painted a very different picture.
Defense lawyer Sasha Wass argued that Rebecca Hanson was unstable and had an agenda against her husband.
She highlighted the couple’s ongoing marital issues, which had escalated to divorce proceedings.
Wass also presented WhatsApp messages from Rebecca, in which she said she was “fed up” with Charles grabbing her.
In one exchange, she expressed that she shouldn’t be scared of her husband, pointing to emotional distress.
Despite these messages, Wass countered that Rebecca was not controlled in any sense during their marriage and suggested that the prosecution’s case was based solely on Rebecca’s testimony.
Wass pointed out moments in their relationship, such as Charles surprising Rebecca with antique furniture, where she allegedly launched verbal abuse, as evidence of her aggression.
Confessions or Apologies?
The trial centers around the allegations of controlling and coercive behavior, as well as physical abuse over a ten-year period.
The WhatsApp messages are key evidence in this case, with Kemp referring to them as a series of “confessions” from Charles.
Wass, however, argues that the messages where Charles apologizes are merely him expressing regret for things he didn’t do.
She dismissed the notion that giving surprise gifts or being late home could be deemed coercive control, calling it a preposterous accusation.
According to the defense, the interactions between Charles and Rebecca don’t prove abuse but rather show moments of tension in a long-term relationship.
Ongoing Trial and Implications
Charles Hanson has denied all charges, which include controlling or coercive behavior, as well as assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
As the trial continues, the jury will have to weigh the conflicting messages and testimonies.
The court is tasked with deciding whether the WhatsApp messages constitute admissions of guilt or are simply emotional apologies within the context of a complicated marriage.
The case continues to unfold, with both sides making compelling arguments about the true nature of the couple’s relationship.
It will ultimately be up to the jury to determine the validity of the charges against the Bargain Hunt presenter.