A County Durham man faces a trial accused of raping a woman last year.
John Murphy, 60, of Escallond Drive in Dalton-le-Dale, Seaham appeared at Durham Crown Court on Wednesday (June 5) where he denied a charge of rape.
He pleaded not guilty and was released on bail following the short 20-minute hearing.
Appearing in the dock wearing a suit and tie he spoke to confirm his name and enter his plea.
A date of May 6, 2025, was set for the trial before a jury, expected to last three days.
Judge Recorder Simon Eckersley told Murphy: “You are on bail and will have the same terms and conditions. You are required to attend certainly for your trial and any pre-trial hearings. If you do not you will be in breach of your bail.
Recorder Eckersley explained that the case was listed so far in advance due to the large backlog in the criminal courts.
Murphy previously appeared before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court last month.
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