Trial date set for man charged with alleged rape of schoolgirl in sea

The 15-year-old was allegedly attacked in the sea off Bournemouth beach

The alleged attack happened in the sea near to the Oceanarium attraction
Author: Ben MitchellPublished 20th Jul 2023
Last updated 20th Jul 2023

A trial date has been set for a 20-year-old man from the West Midlands charged with the alleged rape of a schoolgirl in the sea during a busy summer's day at Bournemouth beach.

Dorset Police received a report that a 15-year-old girl had been attacked in the sea near to the Oceanarium at 4.00pm on 18 July 2021.

During a preliminary hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court, Judge Robert Pawson set a trial date of 11 March 2024 for Gabriel Marinoaica, of Darlaston, Walsall.

He faces a charge of rape and four counts of sexual assault.

The defendant, who did not attend the hearing, is expected to enter pleas at a further hearing to be held on October 20.

He was released on unconditional bail until then.

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