Bruce Alexander Aitken’s name suppression lapsed yesterday, nine months after he first appeared before the Dunedin District Court.
The 73-year-old former pro-chancellor at the University of Otago was made a Companion of the Queen’s Service Order in 2009 and at the time said it was a pleasure to have the ceremony in the "familiar surrounding of Larnach Castle and surrounded by friends and family".
While several aspects of the case are still covered by a suppression order, the Otago Daily Times can reveal Aitken — who worked as a lawyer for 20 years — is accused of sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection, as well as indecency with a boy under 12.
The latter charge is representative, which means it covers multiple allegations involving the same complainant.
The alleged offences took place in Dunedin in the 1990s, but the exact locations cannot be published.
Aitken has pleaded not guilty to the charges and remains on bail.
He will next appear in court in October.
