Sex charge caretaker barred from all schools

A SCHOOL caretaker from Co Antrim charged with making a sexual communication to a child has been banned from entering any school.

As part of his bail conditions, William Hunter (50), of Inver Heights in Larne, is also not allowed to talk to any person under the age of 18.

Hunter appeared at Ballymena Magistrates Court yesterday. It is alleged that between July 27 and September 21 last year the defendant intentionally communicated with a person under 16 for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification.

Hunter was present in the dock, where he was represented by defence solicitor Stewart Ballentine.

A police officer said he believed he could connect the accused to the charge.

A prosecutor said the case would be proceeding in the Magistrates Court.

The full circumstances of the matter have yet to be outlined in court.

District Judge Peter King released the defendant on bail of £500 with a number of conditions.

The accused is not to attempt to see, speak to or in other way contact the alleged injured party directly or indirectly.

He is also banned from attempting to see, speak to or in any way contact any person under the age of 18.

The defendant is barred from entering any school premises and he must not be in possession of, or use, any electronic device capable of connecting to the internet.

The case was adjourned until later this month to obtain the defendant’s attitude to the charge.