An Armagh man accused of raping a child under the age of 13 on three occasions will face Crown Court proceedings next month.
It was heard that the 24-year-old is accused of carrying out the offences between August 1, 2009, and August 15, 2015, with them relating to two alleged injured male parties.
The accused appeared charged with three counts of buggery, three counts of rape of child under 13 and sexual assault of a child under 13 at Newry Magistrates’ on Wednesday.
Appearing via videolink from his solicitor’s office, the defendant made no objection to the holding of a preliminary enquiry.
Prosecution submitted that based on the papers before the court there was a prima facie case to answer.
Defence barrister Aaron Thompson made no contrary submissions.
District Judge Eamonn King said that he was satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer.
The 24-year-old was released on continuing bail to appear before Newry Crown Court on November 17 for arraignment.
