TWO men accused of raping a 12-year-old girl have had their case sent to the Crown Court.
Appearing at Lisburn Magistrates Court by videolink, Paul Sheridan (23) and Gerard McKenna (28) confirmed they understood the charges against them and had no objections to the preliminary enquiry.
Sheridan, from Hillfoot Crescent in Ballynahinch, faces two charges alleging the rape of a 12-year-old girl, two counts of sexually assaulting her and two charges of child abduction relating to her and a 15-year-old friend.
McKenna, listed as no fixed abode but previously from Rockville Street in Belfast, is also accused of raping and sexually assaulting the 12-year-old girl, sexual activity with the 15-year-old, offering to supply class A cocaine and two counts of child abduction, all alleged to have been committed on December 23 last year.
Although none of the facts were opened in court today, the charges are understood to have arisen following an incident on the Lagan towpath.
A prosecuting lawyer submitted there was a prima facie case against the men.
They were told that although not obliged to, they had the right to comment on the charges and to call evidence to the preliminary enquiry, the legal step necessary to elevate a case to the Crown Court
They declined the opportunity.
Returning the case to Craigavon Crown Court for trial, District Judge Rosie Watters ordered the pair to appear before the higher court on November 24 for their arraignment.
She also extended legal aid to allow for senior QCs to be instructed after hearing there will be “multiple issues” at the trial.