A MAN is to stand trial accused of raping a child in Belfast, a judge has ordered.
Conaire Adams-Whyte is alleged to have carried out the sexual assault on a 12-year-old girl in July last year.
The 20-year-old defendant, of Crocus Street in the west of the city, is charged with the rape of a child under the age of 13.
He faces a further count of offering to supply a Class B drug, namely cannabis.
As Adams-Whyte appeared before Belfast Magistrates' Court for a preliminary enquiry on Tuesday, prosecutors argued that a prima facie case has been established.
A defence solicitor confirmed no objections were being raised at this stage.
The accused declined to say anything in response to the charges during the brief hearing.
Asked if he wanted to call witnesses or give evidence, he replied: "No."
District Judge Fiona Bagnall granted a prosecution application to have him returned for trial at Belfast Crown Court on a date to be fixed.
Adams-Whyte was released on continuing bail.
His solicitor confirmed he was seeking senior counsel for the trial, adding: "The complainant at the time of the alleged incident was only 12 years old, it's a very serious matter."
