A YOUNG man accused of attempted rape will be one of the first people in the country charged with very serious crimes to receive new fast track justice.
Michael Marsden, 20, of Hawthorne Close at Kimblesworth, appeared in front of Chester-le-Street magistrates on Saturday, charged with attempting to rape a 17-year-old girl.
Previously, he would have waited months before his case went to crown court but, under legislation which became effective last Monday, he will make his first appearance at Newcastle Crown Court this Friday. The case could be dealt with within a month.
Mr Marsden is charged with attempting to rape a 17-year-old Chester-le-Street girl on the night of Monday, January 15 in an alley off Osborne Road in Chester-le-Street.
Mr Marsden's solicitor spoke only to confirm that the crown court date would be amenable and agree to him being remanded in custody at Northallerton until Friday.
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