Boy found dead in woods had been given 'hush money' by man accused of murdering him to keep sexual relationship secret... and 'saw it as a game', jury told
direct to your inboxA schoolboy found dead in the woods had been given 'hush money' by the young man accused of murdering him to keep their sexual relationship secret - and 'saw it as a game', a jury has heard.Matthew Mason, 19, beat Alex Rodda to death with a large metal wrench in Ashley, Cheshire, on December 12 last year, prosecutors have said.The Crown claims Mr Mason, who was 18 at the time, killed Alex because he was being blackmailed after paying him for sex.Prosecutors allege Mr Mason continued to pay Alex in a bid to keep the relationship a secret.Payments of more than £2,000 were made, jurors have previously heard.Mr Mason denies murder.Gordon Cole QC, defending, has told jurors they will have to consider whether the killing was