Man denies riverside attack

A man has denied beating and attempting to sexually assault a woman near a riverside path. Jack Smith, 23, formerly of St Stephen’s Road, Canterbury, allegedly attacked the woman as she walked by the River Stour in the early morning. The reported assault happened in Canterbury’s Kingsmead Road area in December, a court heard. Following his arrest on

December 19, Smith denied the allegation - and will appear for trial at Canterbury Crown Court. Defence barrister Andrew Forsyth explained Smith, more recently of Raymond Fuller Way in Ashford, is expected to argue “mistaken identity and innocent DNA contamination”. Wearing a grey sweater Smith, who remained placid appearing via video-link from HMP Elmley on the Isle of Sheppey, spoke only to confirm his name and indicated his future attendance. He will face trial on two charges after pleading not guilty to both on Monday. The charges are: intent to commit a sexual offence and causing actual bodily harm against the alleged victim, who, for legal reasons, must remain anonymous.

Judge Simon James remanded Smith in custody.

Police taped off a section off path along the River Stour in Canterbury