A 32-year-old man has appeared in court facing a series of serious charges, including the racially aggravated rape of a Sikh student in her twenties.
Court Appearance and Serious Charges
John Ashby, a white British man, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court via video link from HMP Birmingham. The defendant is accused of rape, sexual assault, intentional strangulation, robbery, and religiously/racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
During the brief hearing, Ashby, who was wearing a grey tracksuit, spoke only to confirm his name. He did not enter any pleas to the charges. The court granted a request from his defence team to defer a formal plea until a later date.
Details of the Alleged Attack
The alleged victim is a Sikh student in her twenties. The attack is said to have occurred in the Park Hall area of Walsall. West Midlands Police were called to the scene on October 25, just after 7.15 pm, after reports of a distressed woman in the street.
The case has drawn significant public interest, underscored by a public gallery filled with members of the local Sikh community who attended the hearing to show support.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The case has been adjourned and is next scheduled for a case management hearing on February 2, 2026. Judge Andrew Smith KC will decide closer to the time whether Ashby will appear in person or via video link for that proceeding.
A provisional trial date has been set for April 20, 2026, also at Birmingham Crown Court. The trial is currently estimated to last for five days.
The Crown Prosecution Service has issued a stark reminder that these are active criminal proceedings. They have warned the public and the press that any reporting or online commentary that could prejudice the defendant's right to a fair trial is strictly prohibited.
