AN employee at a children’s home in Oxford accused of sexually assaulting a young girl while taking her out on trips has decided not to give evidence in his trial.
Duncan Stevenson, who was employed at a children’s home in Oxford in 2018, has been charged with two counts of sexual assault against a teenage girl.
The 67-year-old is accused of slapping the girl on her bottom as well as stroking her inner thigh on two different occasions – both allegedly took place on trips away from the home.
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Stevenson, of Butlers Close, Aston le Walls, has denied the offences and is now on trial at Oxford Crown Court.
The prosecution’s case concluded on Wednesday morning (August 14). However, Stevenson has decided not to take the stand and give evidence.
His has denied the offences and a prepared statement which he provided to police upon his arrest.
It read: “I deny the allegations as mentioned in the disclosure. I’ve not sexually assaulted [her] as described or in any other way.
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“The allegations are not true and never happened.”
Judge Nigel Daly, who is presiding over the case, asked if Stevenson had been advised on giving evidence and his barrister confirmed he had.
As a result, Judge Daly will now provide legal directions and a summary of the evidence before the jury retires.
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