Trial begins of Littlehampton man accused of raping girl, five

James Prior, of Horsham Road West, stood in the dock at Chichester Crown Court, on Tuesday (March 12), as the jury was sworn in.

The 22-year-old is charged with rape of a child under the age of 13, sexual assault of a child under 13, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and touching a child under 13 in a sexual way.

Prior has pleaded not guilty to all of the charges against the girl, who for legal reasons cannot be identified.

The offences allegedly took place in the Littlehampton area.

Prior, who was wearing a dark suit and tie, remained silent as the indictment was read out.

The case continues.