In sexual offence cases involving multiple counts, acquittals on earlier counts may be rationally explained by a reasonable doubt as to the accused's knowledge of lack of consent (rather than doubt about the complainant's credibility), particularly where the complainant's own evidence or initial complaints suggest the accused may have perceived consent from the complainant's lack of physical resistance during the earlier acts. Such an explanation does not undermine the complainant's credibility in relation to later counts where resistance was more forceful and unambiguous.
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