Newtownabbey man appears in court charged in connection with 'vile and threatening online comments' about DUP politician
A man has appeared at court in connection with a report of threatening online messages made to South Antrim DUP MLA Trevor Clarke who sits on the Policing Board.
Andrew Moran (30), with an address listed as Grange Lane, Newtownabbey, appeared at Ballymena Magistrates Court on Thursday charged with improper use of public communications by sending a 'threatening' message on March 27 this year.
He is also accused of threatening or abusive behaviour on March 27; harassment between March 27-April 1; attempted intimidation on March 29; and breaching a Restraining Order on March 30 and April 1. He is further accused of possessing cannabis on April 1 this year.
Last week Mr Clarke had spoken in the press, condemning a "series of vile and threatening comments" made against him on social media.
He had said in press: "The language used in these posts is shocking and deeply concerning. These are not throwaway remarks, they are explicit threats of violence and intimidation."
Mr Clarke said that "no one in public life should have to tolerate this kind of abuse".
"Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions," he said. "It is an attack not just on me as an individual, but on the democratic process itself."
The politician had said he will not be intimidated and will continue to do his job "without fear or favour". At court on Thursday, a police officer objected to bail for the accused.
A defence barrister said there were messages on Facebook and social media which had "caused Mr Clarke some concern" but the defendant "denies being involved".
He said the defendant does not have a phone or a Facebook account. The lawyer said the defendant intends to run for "election" and is a "political opponent" of Mr Clarke.
The barrister said the defendant said somebody had "made up" a social media account "posing as him" to make online comments.
The lawyer said the defendant said he was attacked by "local paramilitaries" last Friday "in respect of ongoing issues".
Deputy District Judge Noel Dunlop refused bail. The defendant was remanded in custody and the case was adjourned to April 29.