MAN DENIES GIRL’S RAPE

Court told accused attacked 15-yr-old

A MAN accused of raping a schoolgirl with learning difficulties claims any sexual activity was consensual, the High Court heard yesterday.

Stefan Bighiu, 37, also faces allegations of imprisoning the 15-year-old at a location in Armagh. He was granted bail on condition he must immediately leave approved accommodation any time children are present.

Bighiu, of Lisanally Lane in Armagh, is charged with four counts of rape and false imprisonment.

A second Romanian man is accused of similar offences linked to an incident on March 7. They both deny rape.

Prosecutor Iryna Kennedy said: “She has learning difficulties. She is vulnerable and would have a younger mind than a normal 15-year-old. This applicant said she didn’t come [to the location] by force. He made full admissions to having sex but claimed it was consensual.”

Concerns were raised over an address in Belfast where Bighiu wanted to be bailed to. Although the occupant claimed to live there alone, the court heard police checks found a Disney Princess girl’s bag at the property. Prosecutors said photos of children were also discovered. However, it was accepted any trial could be a year away.

Based on the delay and Bighui’s co-accused being already on bail, Judge David Mcfarland ruled Bighiu can also be released under some conditions.

He said: “Should a person under the age of 16 enter such premises when he is present he is to immediately vacate until such times as the child leaves.”