Pukekohe rape-accused given name suppression

Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Grimstone said the victim broke down when she was told of the arrest. Picture / Brett Phibbs

A man charged with a brutal attack and rape in a Pukekohe home last week had his name suppressed when he appeared in Papakura District Court today.

The 36-year-old man, dressed in blue police overalls, was remanded in custody without plea to reappear again in a fortnight.

He faces seven charges of assault with intent to rape, rape, sexual violation, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, wounding with intent and threatening to kill.

A 37-year-old woman was subjected to a horrific attack lasting several hours in her home last week.

Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Grimstone said the victim broke down with relief on hearing of the arrest.

He said passing on the news was one of the most satisying things he had done in his 22-year police career.

Mr Grimstone would not reveal what had led officers to make the arrest.

- NEWSTALK ZB, HERALD STAFF, NZPA