Overview
- Proceedings continue at Minshull Street Crown Court over an alleged February 2024 rape of a then‑13‑year‑old near Rochdale’s Newbold tram stop.
- Prosecutors set out five rape counts, including joint‑enterprise charges, and say the girl was pushed as positions were swapped before a friend intervened and two boys fled.
- Part of the encounter was recorded and circulated, prosecutors say, with one boy requesting a Snapchat copy and another admitting he filmed a 10‑second clip.
- The 16‑year‑old defendant testified the sexual activity was “100 per cent” consensual, said he felt “happy” afterward, and accepted he propositioned the girl on the tram.
- A 14‑year‑old co‑defendant has been ruled unfit to plead due to ADHD and a learning difficulty, so jurors will decide whether he did the act or encouraged it.