A man who drugged and raped his wife for more than 20 years without her knowledge will no longer be involved in a trial concerning other defendants, a jury has heard.
The husband, aged in his 60s and from the Stockport area, has admitted a total of 60 offences against the woman. These include rape, assault by penetration, administering a substance with intent, and sharing indecent images without her consent. He admitted abusing his wife since 2004, pleading guilty to 45 additional counts on Monday, following 15 previous guilty pleas.
Twelve other men are still due to go on trial at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, accused of serious sexual offences, including rape, against the same woman. A 14th man has also pleaded guilty to sexual offences against her. The trial judge, Maurice Greene, told the jury they are expected to return to court on 5 October, with the prosecution anticipated to open the case on that date. The trial is expected to be completed by 18 December.