Houari El Hilali cleared of kidnapping and sex offences
A jury could not reach a verdict on a further sexual assault charge against the Lewisham man.
A jury has cleared Houari El Hilali of kidnapping and two sexual offence charges. The 34-year-old Lewisham resident faced allegations stemming from an incident on Brandram Road, Lee. However, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision on a further sexual assault charge.
Court proceedings
At Woolwich Crown Court on November 11, El Hilali was found not guilty of kidnapping, committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence, and one count of sexual assault. Warwick Tatford, prosecuting, had presented the Crown's case. The jury was subsequently discharged from considering the final charge.
Next steps
The case is set to return to court on November 25. On that date, the prosecution is expected to inform the court whether it intends to pursue a retrial for the outstanding sexual assault charge.
Questions this report answers
01What charges was Houari El Hilali found not guilty of?
Houari El Hilali was found not guilty of kidnapping and two sex offences, including one count of sexual assault and committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence. A jury could not reach a verdict on a second sexual assault charge.
02Where did the alleged incident take place?
The alleged incident occurred on Brandram Road in Lee. The prosecution had told the court that the complainant was followed from Lee High Road before being taken into an alleyway.
03When will the case return to court?
The case is scheduled to return to Woolwich Crown Court on November 25. At this hearing, the prosecution will state whether it intends to seek a retrial on the sexual assault charge on which the jury could not agree.
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