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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Connor Gordon

US Navy sailor cleared of Glasgow Tinder date rape after not proven verdict

A US Navy sailor was cleared of raping a teacher that he met on Tinder.

Christian Patten, 22, was alleged to have attacked 27-year-old at her flat in Glasgow city centre on January 13, 2020.

Court papers stated Patten kissed the woman on the mouth while she was under the influence of alcohol and incapable of giving of consent.

Patten was said to have ripped and removed her clothing, carried her, bit her as well as pushed her on the body.

It was then stated that Patten raped her to her injury.

Patten denied the single charge at a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.

The jury returned a 'not proven' verdict.

He had lodged a special defence of consent.

US citizen, Patten had been in Glasgow as his submarine the USS Colorado had been berthed in a Clydeside naval base.

The pair met for dinner and later drinks after matching on dating app Tinder.

The woman - who was studying biomedical engineering - claimed she was raped by Patten after he walked her home.

Patten stated that the sex was consensual.

Judge Lord Braid told Patten: "This is a verdict of acquittal - you are free to go."

Patten replied: "Thank you."

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