Newtownabbey man (39) first alleged rioter to appear in court in relation to recent disorder
A Newtownabbey man was remanded in custody on Wednesday (June 10) accused of rioting at Cloughfern Corner.
Appearing at Belfast Magistrates Court by video link from police custody, the 39-year-old confirmed his identity and that he was aware of the charge against him.
Andrew Kane, with an address at Carwood Avenue, is accused of rioting on 9 June this year.
Giving evidence to the court, a police officer said he believed he could connect Kane to the charge.
He confirmed to District Judge Steven Keown that Kane is the first alleged rioter to appear in court in relation to recent disorder.
Following the formal connection, a prosecuting lawyer said the offence was being dealt with as a “racist hate crime” which was aggravated by hostility.
Defence solicitor Hamill Clawson said there was no bail application on Wednesday, and suggested that the case is adjourned to next week so that an appropriate address can be obtained.
Remanding Kane in custody, Judge Keown adjourned the case to 16 June and ordered that he would appear by video link from prison.