A transgender woman charged with rape and sexual assault has died ahead of a scheduled court appearance.
The news of the death of Maddison Wilson, who was born a man but who identified as a woman, was given in court ahead of a plea hearing she was due to attend at Southampton Crown Court on Wednesday.
The prosecutor told the judge that Ms Wilson, who was 37, was “deceased” but gave no more details.
Hampshire police have been contacted for more information.
Ms Wilson had been facing four charges, including one of rape against a girl under 13 in Hull and one involving a sexual assault against a boy under 13 in Southampton.
The court heard that the charges against her would now be formally discontinued.
