A man has been charged with the racially aggravated rape, strangulation and robbery of a woman in Walsall.
John Ashby, 32, of no fixed abode was charged today with one count of rape and sexual assault following an alleged attack on a woman who was not known to him.
The white British man was also charged with intentional strangulation, racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and robbery in relation to the same victim.
West Midlands Police were called to the Park Hall area of Walsall just after 7.15pm on Saturday after a woman was reported to be distressed in the street.
Ben Samples, Head of the CPS West Midlands Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit, said: ‘We have decided to prosecute John Ashby with rape, sexual assault, intentional strangulation, racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and robbery.
‘This follows an investigation by West Midlands Police which looked at the rape and assault of a woman in her 20s at a property in Walsall.
‘Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings.
‘John Ashby will appear at a court to be confirmed on 29 October 2025 for his first hearing.
West Midlands Police were called to the Park Hall (pictured) area of Walsall just after 7.15pm on Saturday after a woman was reported to be distressed in the street
‘We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against the defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.
‘It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.’
The victim is believed to be a Sikh student, the Sikh Federation UK said yesterday.
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby, of Walsall Police, said: ‘We know the fear and concern this attack has caused in our communities.
‘We continue to speak to people in the community to listen to and understand their concerns.
‘Officers have visited faith establishments in Walsall and spoken with local leaders about women’s safety and what measures men can take to make women feel more comfortable.
‘We need to continue to maintain those conversations and how we build on women’s safety in the community.’
Detective Superintendent Ronan Tyrer from West Midlands Police’s public protection unit said: ‘The woman who was the subject of the attack has been informed of the charging decision this evening.
‘She is continuing to be supported by our specially-trained officers.’
