The oldest defendant in British legal history appeared in court to face a series of charges of sexual assault on children he committed years ago. Birmingham Magistrates' Court heard his case years ago but it only came known last year.
According to Telegraph, Ralph Clarke, a 101-years old British man who used to work as a lorry driver came to Birmingham Magistrates' Court for his trial. Clarke faces 29 offences such as indecent assault and a gross indecency with a girl under the age of 14.
The court has not asked the defendant to enter pleas to the said charges. It is alleged the sexual assault to three child victims happened back in the year 1974 and 1983. The pensioner defendant, who was born in March 1915 exited the court and was assisted in walking down the steps with his cane after a brief court appearance.
Clarke's next hearing is scheduled on June 6th at Birmingham Crown Court to enter a formal plea, Independent reported. Prosecutors have charged Clarke with 15 counts of indecent assault, two of inciting a girl to commit an act of gross indecency, 10 allegations of gross indecency and two of attempting to commit another sexual offence.
It was also believed that some of the offences happened in his owned lorry and in his garage workshop, Metro reported. Khizar Hyatt, Clarke's solicitor said he denies the pressed charges against him. The defendant was also granted unconditional bail.
The court clerk outlined to Clarke the allegations he faced and he was asked if he understood them. "He has attended my office and has been fully advised in respect of all of the charges," Hyatt said. The court was told the allegations had only come to light within the last year.
Magistrates adjourned the case which was sent to the city's crown court, where Clarke is due to appear on next month.
