A 25-year-old man has been charged with rape following an allegation at The Swan pub on Wolviston Road in Billingham, prompting the temporary closure of the venue while police and the brewery conduct investigations.
Zack Briggs, 25, of Throston Grange Lane, Hartlepool, was arrested at the pub on Friday, November 6. He appeared at Teesside Magistrates' Court on Monday, November 9, and was remanded in custody.
Court appearances scheduled
His case has been referred to Teesside Crown Court, where he is due to appear next on November 12. A spokesperson for the Courts and Tribunals Service Centre confirmed that a plea and trial preparation hearing has also been scheduled for December 9, reports Teesside Live.
A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: "Police attended The Swan public house on Wolviston Road in Billingham on Friday, where a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape. He has been charged with rape and appeared before Teesside Magistrates' Court on Monday."
Second arrest and pub closure
Officers have also arrested a second man, aged 24, on Tuesday morning on suspicion of sexual assault, relating to a separate reported incident. He has been bailed while the investigation continues.
Police confirmed the pub has been temporarily shut while investigations are conducted by both the brewery and officers.
Anyone affected by these incidents, or those with information or concerns, is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 222160.
