A man has denied knowing his property was being used as a brothel in Sunderland.
Jonathan Cook appeared in the dock accused of owning or tenanting a house at The Croft, in Thornholme Road, whilst aware it was being used for illegal sexual work.
The 48-year-old was at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, where he confirmed his name, date of birth, address and nationality.
He also entered a not guilty plea to one charge of permitting use of his premises as a brothel.
The court was told that Cook, of Coldwell Terrace, Gateshead, was claiming he thought the property was being used for “lawful reasons”.
Prosecutors, however, said they had four witness who disagreed with him.
Greg Flaxen, defending, said: “Mr Cook didn’t know it was being used as a brothel, if, indeed, it was.
“There is a fine line between prostitution and escorts, the latter being legal.”
Glenda Beck, prosecuting, said the trial would last at least four hours.
A trial date was set for May 19 this year at Gateshead Magistrates’ Court.
Cook was released on unconditional bail until that date.
