An alleged rapist has been arrested in Wiltshire after an arrest warrant was issued by a Bristol court.
Specialist traffic units boxed in an Audi on the M4 near Swindon on Wednesday evening after intelligence suggested suspect Tyrese Reid was travelling in the vehicle.
The 22-year-old was found to be a passenger in the vehicle and was arrested on suspicion of failing to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court to answer two charges of rape dating back to April 2020.
During a search of the car, approximately 800 grams of cannabis and a 12-inch knife were found. Prosecutor Keith Ballinger said the drugs would have “significant value”.
As a result, the defendant, of Walsingham Road, Mitcham, South London, was charged with possession with intent to supply Class B drugs and possession of a knife in a public place.
Mark Glendenning, defending, said his client had not received the postal requisition for the charges of rape and therefore could not have known he was due before the court.
He said Reid denies the new charges, claiming he was simply a passenger in the car – which he was travelling in to visit his child in Bristol.
Michelle James, of the National Probation Service, supported a remand application made by Mr Ballinger.
Magistrates remanded him in the custody.
He will next appear before Bristol Crown Court on 6 April to answer the charges of rape and Swindon Crown Court on 8 April to answer the drug and knife charges.
