A Kosovo soldier training Ukrainian troops in the UK is due in court accused of a shocking crime along a Norwich riverside path.
Bali Hoxha Denies Rape and Sexual Assault Charges
Bali Hoxha, 28, of West Tofts Camp near Thetford, stood accused at Norwich Crown Court of raping a woman and committing multiple sexual assaults. The incident allegedly took place at around 11.30pm on 17 September last year, on a footpath between Prince of Wales Road and the Riverside retail park in Norwich. Hoxha, who appeared via video link from HMP Norwich, pleaded not guilty to rape, assault by penetration, and two counts of sexual assault. The charges all relate to a single female victim.
Trial Set for April After High-Profile Court Appearance
Judge Katharine Moore ordered Hoxha to remain in custody ahead of his trial, which is set to begin on 7 April and last for five days. An Albanian interpreter will assist during proceedings. Defending lawyer Jonathan Goodman confirmed Hoxha’s role as a Kosovo soldier currently training Ukrainian forces in the UK. The police investigation followed the arrest soon after the alleged September attack. The case has sent shockwaves through Norfolk’s military and local communities alike.
