Birmingham man denies trying to engage young Walsall girl in sexual communications in 2021
A trial date has been fixed for a man who has been accused of engaging a Walsall child in sexual communications.
Daniel Keehan, of Clarence Road, Birmingham, appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Friday (January 2).
The 42-year-old is charged with engaging in sexual communication with a child between August 1 and 8, 2021, in Walsall. Keehan allegedly asked the young girl about her body and made sexualised comments during a WhatsApp message exchange.
Keehan pleaded not guilty to the single charge.
A two-day trial will be held in December 2029 when three witnesses will give evidence as well as police officers involved in the case.
He was arrested and interviewed in October 2021 but was not formally charged until four years later.
Recorder Rachel Brand KC said: "There has been an unfortunate delay in this case. This is the problem with many cases in the system at the moment. There seems to be a long period between arrest and charges being brought.
"You will need to stay in touch with your solicitors."
Keehan was given unconditional bail until his next hearing on January 6.