Norwich child train rape jury sent out to consider verdicts

Jurors have heard 38-year-old Daniel Russell faces two counts of rape against the girl - who cannot be identified for legal reasons - in toilets on trains between Ely and Norwich and Norwich and Great Yarmouth.

Norwich Crown Court has heard the alleged offences against the girl happened on journeys between November 28, 2015, and January 20, 2021.

Norwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest) He has also pleaded not guilty to causing a child to watch a sexual act and making indecent images of children.

On Wednesday (November 13) the eight men and four women on the jury were sent out just before 3pm to consider verdicts in the trial, which started earlier this month.

Judge David Pugh sent jurors out after summing up evidence in the case following closing speeches from the prosecution and defence.

The crown allege Russell, who has been described by the victim as a "stinky bum bum head", threatened to kill the foals of a horse she had seen at an animal sanctuary if she did not do what he asked.

Daniel Russell at an earlier hearing (Image: Newsquest) Duncan O'Donnell, prosecuting, said while on the train Russell "assaulted her sexually and showed her indecent videos".

Jurors heard evidence from the girl, who said Russell had done things to her "a lot more than lots" and maybe "a jillion times".

But Russell, who gave evidence on Tuesday (November 12), insisted he had not done what he was accused of.

Asked by defence barrister Andrew Oliver how he felt about the allegations against him, Russell, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 12 or 13, replied: "Sick to my stomach, its disgusting."

Russell, of Tolhouse Street, Great Yarmouth, has denied all charges he faces.

The trial continues.