Overview
- John Ashby, 32, appeared at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court, entered no plea, was remanded in custody, and is due at Birmingham Crown Court on 26 November.
- He is charged with rape, sexual assault, intentional strangulation, religiously/racially aggravated actual bodily harm, and robbery of jewellery and a mobile phone.
- The Crown Prosecution Service said the woman in her 20s was not known to the defendant and noted there is sufficient evidence to proceed, stressing his right to a fair trial.
- West Midlands Police released CCTV images on Sunday, arrested a suspect on Monday, and say the victim is receiving support from specially trained officers.
- Local leaders reported community concern following the attack, with continued patrols, visits to faith establishments, and reference to a separate Oldbury investigation that has not yet led to charges.