OAP in court charged with raping own grandchild

AN elderly man has appeared in court accused of multiple sexual charges allegedly committed against his young granddaughter.

The accused, who is in his 70s and from Co Tyrone, was charged after a report was made to police earlier this month. He cannot be named to protect the child’s identity.

The defendant faces two counts each of rape and inciting a child to commit an act of gross indecency for sexual gratification. There is also a charge of attempted rape.

The offences are alleged to have occurred on various dates since May 31, 2014, ending on December 1 this year.

At Dungannon Magistrates Court yesterday the defendant spoke only to confirm his identity and that he understood the charges.

A detective constable told the court she believed she could connect the accused to the offences before the court.

A lawyer appearing for the prosecution said a remand in custody was sought as there were concerns the accused could interfere with witnesses.

However, a defence barrister said bail was not being applied for at this stage as there is as yet no address suitable to police. He added while this may be objected to at a later date, he placed on record the defendant had been arrested and released after questioning last week, but then rearrested after police conducted a further interview with the child.

District Judge Amanda Brady remanded the defendant in custody to appear by video-link at Strabane Magistrates Court on a date to be fixed.