Man accused of raping young boy found dead after 'taking his own life' halfway through trial
07.03.2023 - 17:39
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
A pensioner from Leeds who was accused of raping a young boy has died after 'taking his own life' partway through his court trial.
Bernard McGrath, of Coronation Parade, Halton, was standing trial at Leeds Crown Court accused of seven counts of indecent assault, indecency with a child, five counts of rape and a two of assault by penetration, Leeds Live reports. The trial began last Monday and jurors heard evidence from the alleged victim - now an adult - who told how he had been targeted by McGrath when he was just six-years-old.
It was said McGrath abused the boy up until he was 15. His Honour Judge Batty told the court that the 83-year-old's body was found at his home yesterday (March 6).
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He told jurors that he had taken his own life while on trial. Following the discovery of McGrath's body, the jury in the trial was discharged.
On Tuesday, Judge Batty said: "The jury was discharged. Mr McGrath was found dead yesterday morning having apparently taken his own life. The allegations will no longer be pursued."
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