By Paul Higgins
A former GAA club treasurer appeared in court today (wed) accused of historic sex abuse against two alleged victims.
Appearing at Newry Magistrates Court by video link from HMP Magilligan, 64-year-old Thomas McKenna confirmed his identity and that he was aware of the 17 charges against him.
In relation to the first complainant McKenna, originally from Crossmaglen but now with an address in custody, faces 14 charges of indecent assault alleged to have been committed between 24 February 1993 and 25 February 2000.
In relation to the second alleged victim, McKenna is charged with indecent assault, sexual assault and causing a person to engage in sexual activity involving penetration without their consent, between 31 July 2001 and 30 September 2015.
Although none of the alleged facts giving rise to the charges were opened in court, a prosecuting lawyer submitted the legal papers and statements established a prima facie case to answer.
Defence solicitor Gerard Trainor conceded the point while McKenna, dressed in a beige, buttoned up polo shirt, declined to exercise his rights to either comment on the charges or call evidence on his own behalf.
District Judge Eamon King said that having read the papers, “I am satisfied” there is a case to answer so he returned the case to Newry Crown Court for trial.
On foot of a defence application, he extended legal aid to allow for a senior barrister to be instructed and remanding McKenna back into custody, he ordered the alleged pervert to appear for his arraignment on 2 July.
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 