THE case of a man accused of stealing nearly £200k from his employer has once again been pushed back.
Ben Noden's case has been delayed multiple times since he first appeared in court three months ago.
The 37-year-old is charged with theft by employee, with £198,387.15 belonging to employer Peter Round being stolen. He is also charged with committing fraud by false representation by forging a signature in order to obtain money.
Noden was due to admit or deny the offences today (November 14) but has been given another five days. The Worcester Crown Court case was due to be heard at Redditch Magistrates Court.
The latest delay comes despite Noden being told at the last hearing he must have a solicitor in place by November 14.
Worcester Crown Court had heard on October 14, there was an application for legal aid in process made by Noden.
Her Honour Judge Seanin Gilmore adjourned the hearing for another month for Noden to find representation either through legal aid, or a private solicitor.
The judge said: "Mr Noden it's being arraigned to the 14th of November. You must have a solicitor by that date organised".
It's not the first time Noden's case has been pushed back.
Noden first appeared before Judge Martin Jackson at Worcester Crown Court on Tuesday, August 20. He appeared with no legal representation and Judge Jackson adjourned the case for two weeks to allow him the time to provide solicitors with further information, including bank statements.
A plea hearing was later rescheduled to take place on September 19, but the judge acknowledged he may not have been made aware of the hearing, and the hearing was relisted for October 14.
Noden, of Church Street, Shipston, formerly of Coronation Way, Kidderminster, has yet to enter pleas to these charges.
He admitted a separate charge of stealing cash to the value of £2,640 belonging to Monica Davies at Worcester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, July 23.
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