Worcestershire cricketer appears in court accused of rape

Alex Hepburn neither entered nor indicated a plea to two rape charges when he appeared at Worcester Magistrates’ Court today

A professional cricketer has appeared in court accused of raping a woman.

Worcestershire CCC all-rounder Alex Hepburn, 21, faced Worcester Magistrates’ Court accused of two counts of rape.

During a brief hearing the court heard the alleged offences took place in Worcester on April 1 this year.

Hepburn, who wore a grey suit, white shirt and grey tie, spoke only to confirm his name, address and nationality of Australian.

John Dove, prosecuting, told JPs the case could only be dealt with at the crown court.

Hepburn’s solicitor Jason Patel made no indication of plea on behalf of his client.

The defendant, of Malvern, Worcestershire was released on unconditional bail until January 4 when he is to appear at Worcester Crown Court.

Gareth Thomas, chair of the bench, told Hepburn: ‘As you have just heard, we are remanding you on unconditional bail to appear before Worcester Crown Court on Thursday January 4 at 9am.

The Australian all-rounder is accused of carrying out the sex attacks in Worcester on April 1

The Australian all-rounder is accused of carrying out the sex attacks in Worcester on April 1

The magistrate added: ‘If you don’t go back to court at the right date and time you may commit an offence and you could be arrested, remanded and sent to prison.

‘If you do commit an offence on bail your sentence will be greater.’

Hepburn, who is yet to play first class cricket for Worcestershire, has been suspended on full pay by his club.

In a statement, the club said: ‘As the matter is now subject to criminal proceedings the club is unable to provide any further comment at this stage.’

Worcestershire also confirmed it was dealing with a disciplinary matter involving director of cricket Steve Rhodes, which relates solely to his role at the club.

‘The matter is ongoing so at this time there will be no further comment,’ the club statement added.

He has been suspended from his club on full pay until the conclusion of the prosecution

He has been suspended from his club on full pay until the conclusion of the prosecution

 

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