Sean Gallagher from Theale charged with rape and strangulation

A MAN has been charged with rape and intentional strangulation.

Sean Gallagher appeared in the dock for a preliminary hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 14.

Mr Gallagher, an account manager for an IT firm, is accused of raping a woman in Reading on a specified date last year.

He is further accused of intentional strangulation on the same occasion.

Jaimini Renuka, prosecuting, confirmed that the same person was the complainant in both charges.

District judge Evelyn Warner explained that the rape charge was indictable only, meaning it can only be dealt with by a crown court.

The intentional strangulation charge is an ‘each way’ offence – meaning it can be tried either in a magistrates’ court or a crown court.

Ms Renuka suggested they both be sent to the higher court and Adonis Daniel, representing Mr Gallagher, agreed.

Judge Warner sent the case to be dealt with by a judge and, in the event of a trial, by a jury sitting at Reading Crown Court on a date to be fixed.

Mr Gallagher was meanwhile released on bail with conditions.