David McNee was beaten to death in his own home in 2003. His killer was found guilty of manslaughter after using a provocation defence referred to as the 'gay panic' defence.

In 2003, Philip Edwards went to David McNee's house to perform a sex show for $120 but ended up killing the well known interior designer.

McNee's killer used a partial 'provocation defence' which was at the time referred to as the 'gay panic' defence.

He was eventually found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 9 years in prison.

Law Professor Elisabeth McDonald from Canterbury University has looked into this case and the controversial defence used.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details