Man accused of wounding with intent to cause GBH, is to stand trial at Craigavon Crown Court

Ruslanas Kovalkovas, of Ranfurley Road, Portadown appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court via video link from Maghaberry Prison for a Preliminary Enquiry.

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He faces two charges including wounding a man with intent to do him grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a knife, on May 24 last year.

Kovalkovas’ lawyer said his client is Russian and explained he had consulted with him last week with an interpreter. He explained that while there is no interpreter in court, there is no issue with the Preliminary Enquiry going ahead.

Asked if the defendant has enough English to answer the questions, the lawyer said he assured the court his client had been taken through the questions.

After the charges were put to Kovalkovas, a prosecutor submitted that, based on the papers before the court, there is a prima facie case to answer. The defendant’s barrister said that was conceded.

The defendant’s lawyer said Kovolkovas declined to say anything or put anything in writing in relation to the charges.

The district judge submitted there was a prima facie case and the defendant was sent for trial to Craigavon Crown Court with arraignment on May 21.

Kovolkovas’ lawyer said his client is currently on remand in relation to another matter, asking if the court would grant legal aid for one counsel for the crown court.

The district judge granted the legal aid request.