Man to stand trial at Craigavon Crown Court accused of sexually communicating with a child
A man accused of sexually communicating with a child is to stand trial at Craigavon Crown Court.
Harry Lappin, aged 25, from Drumnabreeze Road, Magheralin, appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court for a Preliminary Enquiry.
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Two charges were put to the defendant – one accuses him of sexually communicating with a child on September 18, 2024 and a second charge accuses Lappin, being an adult, caused a child, aged between 13-16, to look at a person engaged in sexual activity on the same date.
A prosecutor submitted that there is a prima facie case based on the papers before the court. There were no contrary submissions from Lappin’s barrister Mr Conor Lunny.
District Judge Michael Ranaghan said he had read the papers and concluded there is a prima facie case against Lappin.
The 25-year-old declined to say anything or submit anything in writing in relation to the charges.
Lappin was committed on bail to appear before Craigavon Crown Court on April 28 this year.
District Judge Michael Ranaghan said he would mark his court bail of £300 to "ensure your attendance”.
Mr Lunny submitted a request for legal aid based on his client’s "vulnerabilities”, adding that his client lives at home with his parents.
“Overriding that there is the seriousness of the charge,” said the barrister. "It’s not a decoy case,” said Mr Lunny.
Granting legal aid, and following an application by the prosecution, District Judge Michael Ranaghan also ordered that Lappin have no contact, directly or indirectly, with the complainant or any witnesses in the case.