A man accused of rape has told a court he will stand trial and protest his innocence “until the last day of my life”.
Talel Rmaida, 20, faces one allegation. This alleges the rape of a woman during an incident on February 18.
Rmaida, of London Road, Carlisle, appeared at the city’s crown court remotely over a video link. Assisted by an interpreter, he spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and to enter a plea of not guilty to the charge.
After entering his not guilty plea, Rmaida told the court: “And I will say it until the last day of my life.”
A timetable for future progress of the case was outlined by a prosecutor, and a trial date was set.
This hearing in front of a jury is due to start at the crown court on December 4 and, it is estimated, will last three to four days.
In the meantime, Rmaida was remanded in custody by Judge Ian Unsworth KC. He also reminded the defendant to assist his legal team with the preparation of a statement setting out his defence to the allegation and issues he takes with the prosecution case.
