A Carlisle man accused of raping a woman is to stand trial in front of a jury next year.
Dennis Brennan, aged 26, faced one allegation when he appeared at the city’s crown court this morning.
During a short hearing in front of Judge Nicholas Barker, Brennan pleaded not guilty to one charge. This alleges that he raped a woman on June 20 last year.
A timetable for the progression of the case was outlined by the prosecution.
Brennan, of Rosehill Drive, will now stand trial at the crown court. This is due to start on May 9 and, it is estimated, will last around four days.
In the meantime, the defendant was granted bail by the judge on the condition that he does not contact two named individuals, including the complainant, in any way — including through social media.
Brennan was reminded by Judge Barker to cooperate with his legal team in the preparation of a statement setting out his defence to the allegation, and issues he takes with the prosecution case.
