A YOUNG Royal Marine accused of rape could face a re-trail after a jury who were trying him were discharged after failing to reach a verdict.
Neil Roberts, 19, of Providence Street, Parr, had pleaded not guilty to raping a 48-year-old woman at railway arches beneath Corporation Street, St Helens, in the early hours of Sunday, October 5 last year.
Liverpool Crown Court heard the woman allege Roberts grabbed her as she was walking home after a night out. She claims Roberts took her to the arches and attacked her.
Roberts claims they had a consensual sexual encounter. He will appear at court again next week, when he will learn if there is to be a re-trial.
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