A man accused of encouraging or assisting an attempted serious assault at a Co. Down bar will face Crown Court proceedings.
Court heard the 23-year-old is alleged to have accompanied another male to Harley’s Bar, Kilkeel, where the assault is reported to have occurred.
Ryan Matthews, of Churchview Close, Kilkeel, appeared charged with intentionally encouraging or assisting attempted grievous bodily harm and intentionally encouraging or assisting to commission of assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Newry Magistrates’ on Wednesday.
As the charges were read out, it was outlined that on February 7, of last year, the defendant is alleged to have accompanied another male to Harley’s Bar, Kilkeel and remained on or in the vicinity of the premises.
Appearing via videolink from his solicitor’s office, Matthews 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 solicitor Gareth Doran made no contrary submissions.
District Judge Eamonn King said that he was satisfied there was a prima facie case to answer.
The defendant was released on his own bail of £500 to appear before Newry Crown Court on a date to be fixed.
