Portsmouth man, 27, set to go on trial after denying rape charge during court appearance

A MAN from Portsmouth has pleaded not guilty to rape after appearing at court.
By Steve Deeks
Published 14th Jan 2021, 16:07 BST
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Steven Chariewa, 27, of Sun Street in Portsea, was arrested after a 26-year-old woman reported to police that she was raped at an address in Hilsea early on Sunday November 22.

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Chariewa was subsequently charged with one offence of rape and remanded in custody during an appearance before city magistrates two days after the alleged rape.

Portsmouth Crown Court Picture: César Moreno Huerta portsmouth news breakingPortsmouth Crown Court Picture: César Moreno Huerta portsmouth news breaking
Portsmouth Crown Court Picture: César Moreno Huerta portsmouth news breaking
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Now the defendant, appearing at Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday, has denied the offence.

A trial date has now been set for July 12.

Chariewa remains remanded in custody until the trial.

The victim continues to receive support from specially trained officers.

SEE ALSO: Rapist jailed for infecting teenager with STI in alleyway

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