The Patron - Part One: The two faces of James Hay Wallace

A Moment In Crime is presenting a three part episode - The Patron - which looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.

Until his spectacular fall from grace, the Auckland rich lister was considered one of the biggest supporters of New Zealand film and art.

Wallace was respected, revered and his help, guidance and money was sought after by many in the arts world.

But behind the money and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it. 

Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.

A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes. 

Thanks to NZ Herald' senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode.

For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:

• Sir James Wallace named as former rich-lister convicted of indecently assaulting three men and attempting to pervert the course of justice
• 'I do not forgive you': Victims of prominent businessman speak out as influential figure jailed
• Sir James Wallace unmasked: The inside story of a rich-lister, arts philanthropist and criminal
• James Wallace: Disgraced arts patron continues to deny offending, refused parole

SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?

If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:

• Call 0800 044 334
• Text 4334
• Email [e-mail]

Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.

If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.