Name suppression lifted in Christchurch rape case

Name suppression has been lifted on a man charged with raping a woman who was dragged off a central Christchurch street last month.

Lorin Yarrell's name was suppressed when he was arrested and brought to court last Friday, so that he could advise his family.

Defence counsel Kerry Cook sought to extend the suppression when Yarrell, 28, came before Judge Gary MacAskill on remand in Christchurch District Court today.

Mr Cook said Yarrell had had difficulty advising his family in custody, and sought an extension of the order to a predispositions conference on June 22.

But Crown prosecutor Craig Ruane opposed the suppression order.

"It was granted for a limited purpose and a limited time," he said.

"Police believe that if the name is published it may result in further assistance being rendered by members of the public."

Judge MacAskill refused the suppression and remanded Yarrell in custody.

The unemployed man now faces four charges of rape or sexual violation of the woman on April 28. Three charges have been added since his appearance last week.

At that first appearance, counsel said Yarrell "emphatically" denied the original sexual violation charge and would plead not guilty at the appropriate time.

- NZPA