Adam Hall, from Washington, Tyne and Wear, was found guilty of intentionally transmitting HIV to multiple victims and raping one of them. The court heard that Hall met his victims through dating apps, including Grindr, and had unprotected sex without disclosing his HIV status. The youngest victim was just 15 when they met Hall and 16 when they were told they were HIV-positive. According to major media reports, that victim received the call about their diagnosis just after getting off the school bus. The victim told the Daily Mirror that their life was stripped away and that they felt shattered and numb. Four victims read personal statements in court, describing the devastating impact of Hall's crimes. Some victims had not told their families about their HIV status, fell into addiction, or lost their jobs, according to major media reports. The judge described Hall's actions as 'cruel and calculating' and noted the profound psychological and physical harm caused to the victims.
Hall knew he was HIV positive, prosecutor Kama Melly KC told the court. The prosecution case was that Hall intended to transmit HIV to the complainants, Melly said. Hall claimed in court that he had been taking medication to keep his viral load undetectable, but jurors concluded that this claim was a lie, according to research from two sources. The defense argued that Hall did not intend to cause harm, but the jury rejected that argument. The judge described Hall's actions as 'cruel and calculating' and noted the profound psychological and physical harm caused to the victims.
Hall refused to appear in court to hear his sentence, according to major media reports. He is 43 years old and from Washington, Tyne and Wear. His absence from the sentencing hearing was seen as a further sign of his lack of remorse. The court proceeded in his absence, with the judge imposing the life sentence and minimum term.
In addition to the charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and rape, Hall was found guilty of GBH with intent in relation to three other victims, without the rape charge, according to research from two sources. Northumbria Police believe Hall may have abused other men across the country, from County Durham, Middlesbrough, North and West Yorkshire, Manchester, and London. The police have urged any other potential victims to come forward. The Crown Prosecution Service and Northumbria Police have praised the victims for their courage in coming forward and testifying. The case has highlighted the challenges of prosecuting intentional HIV transmission, which requires proving intent. Support services are being offered to the victims, though the specific details have not been disclosed. The motive for Hall's crimes remains unclear, and it is unknown why he refused to appear in court. The exact evidence that led jurors to conclude Hall's claim about medication was a lie has not been made public. The investigation continues, and police are working to identify any additional victims across the UK.