Northern Ireland

Woman (46) in court charged with sexual offences against teenage boy

Laganside courthouse in Belfast
Laganside courthouse in Belfast Laganside courthouse in Belfast

A 46-year old woman appeared at Belfast Crown Court on Tuesday where she denied sexual offences against a teenage boy.

Isobel Murphy was told she will stand trial next month on a total of six charges involving a 14-year old.

Murphy, from Central Avenue in Bangor, Co Down, was charged with - and denied - offences which are alleged to have been committed on dates between May 1 and June 2, 2021.

She pleaded 'not guilty' to being an adult and engaging in sexual activity with a child, sexual activity with a child, sexual activity including penetration with a child and causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

Murphy also denied two charges of sexual communication with a child.

Following the arraignment, Judge Patricia Smyth said that as the trial involved a 14-year old complainant who will be giving evidence, the case would be "fast-tracked."

The Belfast Recorder set the date for trial as April 24, 2023 and said she would review the case next on Thursday March 23.