Man apologises to ‘poor woman’ but denies attempted rape

A man accused of attempting to rape an elderly disabled woman at knifepoint yesterday apologised for what he had put the “poor woman through”, but firmly maintained his innocence.

The 27-year old local man stands trial at the Supreme Court accused of attempted rape and trespassing with intent to commit a sexual offence.

He has pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article but denies the remaining charges.

Giving evidence under oath yesterday, the defendant acknowledged that he had “done wrong” for entering the woman’s house without her permission and in possession of a knife.

But he insisted that had not tried to commit a sexual offence.

Asked by his lawyer, Elliott Phillips, if he attempted to rape the victim he replied: “No I didn’t. I did not try to rape that poor woman”.”

“I am so, so sorry for what I put that woman through and I hope that one day she forgives me,” the defendant told the court with regards to alarming the victim in her own bedroom.

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