Man accused of rape and deliberate HIV transmission
Adam Hall, currently of no fixed abode but previously of the Washington area, appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.
The 42-year-old is charged with five counts of rape and a further seven counts of causing grievous bodily harm which relate to the transmission of HIV, police said.
He has been remanded in custody ahead of his next appearance at Newcastle Crown Court on 2 July.
He has also been charged with two counts of controlling or coercive behaviour and one count of supplying a Class B drug, GHB.
Det Ch Insp Emma Smith, of Northumbria Police, urged anyone with information to continue to get in touch with officers.
"We recognise the nature of the charges may raise concern and anxiety within our communities," she added.
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