A Hong Kong court has sentenced Isabel Rose, a 26-year-old events manager from south-east London, to six years in prison after convicting her of blackmail and perverting the course of public justice.

The judgment follows a legal process stemming from allegations Rose made against a British banker, whom she met while traveling in Thailand before visiting him in Hong Kong in January 2024.

Shortly after her arrival, Rose reported to the police that she had been sexually assaulted in his residence. The initial investigation led to the banker’s arrest; however, authorities subsequently cleared him of wrongdoing after uncovering evidence that contradicted her account.

In a 300-page verdict delivered by District Court Judge Adriana Noelle Tse Ching, the court accepted the banker’s testimony while dismissing Rose’s claims.

Prosecutors demonstrated that Rose had demanded financial transfers from the man—initially receiving £5,000 before escalating her demands to £100,000 under the threat of filing a formal police complaint.

While Rose’s defense team contended that the requested funds represented a mutual settlement intended to cover medical costs and travel expenses, the court ruled that the escalating monetary demands constituted intentional extortion.

Describing the conduct as a deliberate manipulation of the man’s romantic interest and friendship, Judge Tse Ching handed down the six-year prison sentence, noting a complete absence of remorse. Legal representatives for Rose indicated that they are reviewing available options following the sentencing.