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Gardener accused of raping client over six-month period dies after being charged

A 72-year-old gardener accused of raping and indecently assaulting a client in Adelaide has died, prompting the charges against him to be withdrawn. (Supplied: Facebook)

A 72-year-old man who allegedly raped and indecently assaulted a client he was providing gardening services to has died, prompting the charges against him to be withdrawn.

Garry David Platten, of Parafield Gardens, was charged with four counts of rape and another two counts of indecent assault.

Police alleged Mr Platten sexually assaulted a woman who was his client over the past six months while providing gardening services at her property.

In a statement, SA Police confirmed Mr Platten was taken to hospital in a critical condition on the same day the charges against him were made public.

"The 72-year-old man was taken from his northern suburbs home to the Lyell McEwin Hospital by paramedics on Tuesday, 19 July in a critical condition," the statement provided to ABC News said.

He died three days later.

Court documents sighted by ABC News stated Mr Platten's alleged offending was in breach of Child Safety Regulations and was a disqualifying offence against the Disability Inclusion Act and NDIS worker check.

The Disability Inclusion Act is a legislative framework to "promote the full inclusion in the community of people with disability".

Police alleged Mr Platten sexually assaulted a woman who was his client over the past six months while providing gardening services at her property.  (Supplied: Facebook)

When SA Police publicly revealed the alleged crimes last week, they asked for anyone who had been a victim of similar offending to come forward.

Police have confirmed to ABC News that no further victims had come forward.

Mr Platten was due to face court in October, but the matter has been called on this week, where the ABC understands the charges against him will be withdrawn.

In a statement, the Director of Public Prosecutions said, "a prosecution comes to an end with the death of an accused".

Mr Platten was arrested on July 4, and remanded in custody after facing the Elizabeth Magistrates Court.

He was later granted home-detention bail.

In a statement, aged care provider ECH said Mr Platten was a former employee.

Mr Platten's LinkedIn profile stated he was an enrolled nurse and personal care worker for E.B.L Disability Services.

Mr Platten was also a former St John member but ceased service three years ago.

He had also received a 25-year service medal from Masonic Lodge.

In tributes posted on social media Mr Platten was remembered as "a special friend" who would be "greatly missed by all".

E.B.L Disability Services declined a request for comment.

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