By JAMES MITCHELL
Sunday Times Newspapers
TRENTON — A preliminary exam is scheduled for Tuesday to review evidence involving the alleged rape of a girl by a local businessman.
Rakeshkuma B. Patel, 48, was arrested and arraigned Nov. 26 after a girl between the ages of 13 and 15 told police she’d been sexually assaulted that morning at Patel’s place of business.
Patel was arraigned on two counts of criminal sexual conduct, each carrying a potential 15-year prison sentence.
Reportedly, the girl knew Patel and the incident took place at his Trenton business, which police did not specify.
A review of the evidence will be held before 33rd District Court Judge Jennifer Coleman. Patel posted 10 percent of a $50,000 bond and was released following the arraignment. Patel also faces a misdemeanor count of selling or furnishing alcohol to a minor, punishable by 60 days in jail.
(James Mitchell can be reached at [email protected])