Wigan man accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a schoolgirl denies the charges

By Charles Graham
Published 25th Apr 2022, 04:55 BST
Updated 25th Apr 2022, 08:03 BST
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A Wigan man has appeared in court to deny the abduction and sexual assault of a schoolgirl.

Michael Ellis Owen, 33, of Bridgewater Street in Hindley, faces charges of kidnap with intent to commit a sexual offence, sexual assault by penetration and false imprisonment.

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All allegations concern the same 16-year-old complainant and are said to have taken place on Sunday March 13.

He made a brief appearance before a Bolton Crown Court judge who set a trial date of September 5. Owen is in custody until then.