MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULTING A GIRL
A man aged 65 from Feniton has pleaded not guilty to multiple allegations concerning child sexual offences involving a girl aged between 13 and 15.Paul Christopher, of Feniton Gardens, appeared before Exeter Magistrates’ Court and denied three related charges.
The incidents are alleged to have taken place in Tiverton between May 5, 2015, and May 4, 2018.
He faces charges including assault by penetration and two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a girl aged 13 to 15 during that period.
The court heard that Christopher denies any sexual contact occurred.
Because these are serious allegations, the case is beyond the scope of magistrates’ court and must be referred to crown court.
Magistrates transferred the case to Exeter Crown Court, where Christopher is scheduled to have an initial hearing on March 20.
He has been granted unconditional bail in the meantime.
This report was produced under the Police & Crime Commissioner’s Criminal Justice Court Reporting initiative.
