A 12-year-old boy has appeared at Birmingham Youth Court accused of sexually assaulting and seriously injuring a woman in her 60s. The woman was discovered in a property located north of Birmingham city centre around 6:15 PM on March 18. According to prosecutor Colin Charvill, she was found lying on the floor, bleeding heavily from several wounds, barely conscious, and naked apart from a t-shirt, with cuts to her chest and face. She remains hospitalized in a serious condition, having been placed in an induced coma.

The juvenile defendant has been charged with sexual assault and wounding in connection with the alleged attack. Additionally, he faces charges of theft on the same day as the main incident, and intentional strangulation relating to a separate alleged event on February 11. During his appearance in court, the boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons due to his age, indicated pleas of not guilty to all charges.

District Judge David Murray remanded the boy to youth detention accommodation. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 21 at Birmingham Crown Court. The hearing was attended by the boy’s mother and sister.

West Midlands Police have issued a statement acknowledging the community's concern regarding the incident. They confirmed that their enquiries remain ongoing and assured the public that officers will continue to provide reassurance in the local area. The police have appealed for anyone with information regarding suspicious behaviour on March 18 or in the days leading up to it, to submit details via the Major Incident Public Portal or by calling 101, quoting log 4888 of March 18.