UK rapper Yung Filly, whose real name is Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos, has been found not guilty of three counts of sexual penetration without consent. A jury in Western Australia delivered the verdict on Friday. This decision follows accusations of sexual assault after a performance in Hillarys, a coastal suburb of Perth, in 2024.
Despite the not guilty verdict on the rape charges, Barrientos was found guilty of two counts of assault occasioning bodily harm. The jury could not reach a decision on three other counts of rape. These unresolved charges mean prosecutors will decide whether to pursue further legal action. Barrientos, 30, had pleaded not guilty to all charges.
This case highlights the complexities of legal proceedings involving public figures and serious allegations. The differing verdicts reflect the challenges juries face in evaluating evidence and testimony. The outcome will likely influence public perception and future engagements for the social media personality. This situation also underscores the legal system's role in addressing accusations of violence and sexual misconduct.
During the trial, Barrientos stated he "fancied" the woman when they met at the concert venue. He denied touching her inappropriately, telling the court he only placed his hand on her waist. He maintained that the "vibes were good" when they arrived at his hotel. His security guard took the woman's phone, which Barrientos described as "standard practice" for privacy.
The court heard that the pair engaged in consensual sex before Barrientos allegedly turned violent. The woman, who cannot be named, testified that she asked him to stop. She accused him of biting, bruising, and attempting to choke her. Photos of bruises and bite marks on her face and neck were presented as evidence in court.
Barrientos acknowledged biting her multiple times, explaining it as a "love bite." He denied that the woman repeatedly asked him to stop. Prosecutor Danielle Clarke described Barrientos as an "entitled" man who violated the fan. His defence lawyer argued the accuser's evidence contained "inconsistencies, embellishments and outright lies."
Barrientos will remain on bail until August 21. On this date, the court will decide his sentencing date for the assault charges. Prosecutors will also determine the next steps for the three hung jury verdicts regarding the rape charges. This decision could lead to a retrial on those specific counts. The case continues to draw significant public attention due to Barrientos's prominence.
The social media star is known for his work with the YouTube collective Beta Squad. He has also appeared on the celebrity version of Bake Off on Channel 4 and presented BBC Three shows. He boasts 1.8 million YouTube subscribers, three million followers on TikTok, and 2.4 million on Instagram. His legal troubles have been widely reported across various media platforms.
This case serves as a reminder of the legal and reputational risks associated with public life. The ongoing legal process will continue to be monitored closely by his fans and the wider public. The final sentencing and any decisions regarding further trials will be critical developments in this high-profile case.