Jury discharged in case of eight men accused of sexually abusing two girls in Rochdale

A jury has been discharged in the case of eight men accused of sexually abusing two girls as young as 12 in Rochdale.

The men went on trial earlier this month charged with 80 sexual offences between 2002 and 2006. Jurors at Minshull Street Crown Court heard that the alleged victims were 'mere objects' to be groomed, humiliated and sexually abused by the defendants.

But following several days of evidence, Judge Tina Landale dramatically discharged the jury of seven men and five women this afternoon (Tuesday).

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The trial, which is scheduled to last up to 12 weeks, is due to resume once a new jury has been sworn in later this week.

Neither of the alleged victims in the case, as complainants of sexual offences, can be publicly identified. All defendants have pleaded not guilty and deny all the charges they face.

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