Rape story 'a mask for violence'

Jul 3 2007 By Ross McCarthy, Birmingham Mail

CONCERN over an allegation that a young girl had been raped was used as a mask for an "orgy of violence" on the streets of Birmingham, a court was told today.

Six men and a youth have been accused of taking part in serious rioting in Lozells in October 2005, during which one man was murdered, people were attacked and shops looted.

In an opening speech Jerry Hayes, representing one of the accused, Andrew Walker, told a jury at Birmingham Crown Court: "You have, over the last four weeks, listened to the prosecution evidence and it has been traumatic.

"Of course, there were people who were concerned over the allegation of rape of a black girl which came out on pirate radio.

"Their genuine concern was used as a mask for an orgy of violence, for robbery, for burglary, for general mayhem."

Mr Hayes said the majority of people, though, who were concerned, went to the beauty shop where the alleged rape took place and later to a church in George Street.

"We say Andrew Walker was one of those. He was just trying to find out what was happening," said Mr Hayes.

Giving evidence Walker denied taking part in any kind of disorder.

Before the court are Marcell Brown, 26, of Camden Street, Winson Green, Joshua Watson, 20, of Seals Lane, Kings Norton, Walker, 40, of Windmill Lane, Smethwick, Moses Kibuye, 40, of Leopold Street, Highgate, Gavin James, 21, of Melbourne Avenue, Newtown, Lewis Lynch, 20, of Lount Walk, Newtown and a youth who cannot be identified.

All face a charge of riot, apart from Lynch and Watson, which they have pleaded not guilty to. Watson has admitted the charge.

Walker, Brown and Watson have denied a charge of attempted murder, while Brown, Kibuye and Lynch have also pleaded not guilty to wounding with intent.

Brown, Kibuye, Lynch and Watson in addition, have denied racially aggravated criminal damage.

(Proceeding)