WE’LL KEEP FIGHTING

Grieving family’s vow after man, 33, appears in court

THE devastated family of Ian Ogle insisted yesterday their fight for justice goes on.

Relatives and friends of the East Belfast man were speaking outside court after 33-year-old Jonathan Brown appeared charged with murder.

The victim’s daughter Toni said: “We’ve still got a long way to go but it’s a good start today.”

IAN Ogle’s grieving family yesterday insisted their fight for justice goes on after a man appeared in court charged with his murder.

Relatives and friends of the 45-year-old killed less than a fortnight ago packed the public gallery at Belfast Magistrates Court.

Jonathan Brown, 33, is the only person charged in connection with the death.

He was arrested at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday night.

The accused, of Mcarthur Court in East Belfast, acknowledged the charge of one count of murder against him.

Defence solicitor Mark Austin said: “Mr Brown denies planning, preparing and committing this offence.”

The defendant did not seek bail and was remanded in custody to appear again via video link on March 8. Among those in the public gallery were Mr Ogle’s daughter Toni, son Ryan and wife Vera.

Outside court, Toni said: “We’re looking for justice.

“We’re still numb, we know we’ve a long way to go but we feel it was a good start.”

Mr Ogle was killed after an alleged attack by a group of men in Cluan Place, East Belfast, on January 27.

Hundreds attended a vigil at the scene three days later.

Describing the support the family has received, Toni added: “It’s been amazing, we can’t thank everyone enough. We’d just ask for everyone to stay calm.”

Speaking alongside her was UUP councillor Sonia Copeland. She said: “I would ask, on behalf of the family, that anyone with information come forward and at least let this family grieve as best they can.

“It’s been a harrowing time for them, there’s a long way to go yet.

“We’ve had one charge this morning brought before the court and hopefully that will be dealt with in due course.

SUPPORT Daughter Toni with UUP’S Sonia Copeland yesterday

PAIN Toni Ogle, inset, and murder victim Ian Ogle UNITED IN GRIEF Ian Ogle’s family and friends at Belfast court yesterday